A hit-and-run accident is one of the most frustrating and stressful situations a driver can face. Whether your vehicle is damaged in a parking lot or you’re involved in a more serious crash where the responsible driver flees the scene, dealing with the aftermath can be daunting. One of the biggest questions after such an incident is: Will your insurance policy cover you?

Understanding how different types of auto insurance handle hit-and-run accidents is crucial for protecting yourself financially. Let’s explore how coverage works and what steps you should take to ensure you’re adequately protected.

What Is a Hit-and-Run?

A hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without providing contact information or offering assistance. These incidents can range from minor fender benders in a parking lot to serious collisions causing injuries. Unfortunately, identifying the responsible party can be challenging if there were no witnesses or surveillance cameras.

Does Insurance Cover Hit-and-Run Accidents?

The coverage for hit-and-run accidents depends on the type of insurance you carry. Here’s a breakdown of how different policies handle these situations:

1. Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)

Uninsured motorist coverage is specifically designed to protect you if you’re hit by a driver who either doesn’t have insurance or flees the scene.

Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI): Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering if you or your passengers are injured in a hit-and-run accident.
Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD): Covers vehicle repairs if the at-fault driver is uninsured or leaves the scene. However, UMPD is not available in all states, and in some cases, it may not apply to hit-and-run incidents.

2. Collision Coverage

Collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle, regardless of who is at fault. If you have collision coverage, your insurer will pay for repairs or replacement, minus your deductible. This means even if the hit-and-run driver isn’t found, you can still get your car fixed.

3. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay)

PIP and MedPay help cover medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of who caused the accident. PIP may also cover lost wages and other related expenses. These coverages can be particularly helpful in hit-and-run cases where the at-fault driver is unknown.

4. Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage does not typically apply to hit-and-run accidents, as it covers non-collision-related incidents such as theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. However, some people mistakenly believe it protects against hit-and-runs, so it’s important to understand the limitations.

What If You Don’t Have the Right Coverage?

If you don’t carry uninsured motorist or collision coverage, you may have to pay for repairs and medical expenses out of pocket. This is why it’s essential to review your policy and ensure you have adequate protection before an accident happens.

Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run

If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run, taking the right steps can improve your chances of receiving insurance coverage and even identifying the responsible driver. Here’s what to do:

1. Stay at the Scene and Call the Police

Report the accident immediately. A police report can be valuable when filing an insurance claim.

2. Gather Information

Write down details such as the time, location, and any description of the fleeing vehicle. If there are witnesses, get their contact information.

3. Look for Surveillance Cameras

Check if nearby businesses or traffic cameras captured the incident. This evidence can help authorities track down the driver.

4. Take Photos

Document the damage to your vehicle, skid marks, and any debris left behind. These can support your insurance claim.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

File a claim as soon as possible. Provide all the details you’ve gathered to strengthen your case.

Preventing Financial Hardship from a Hit-and-Run

While you can’t always prevent a hit-and-run, you can take steps to minimize the financial impact:

Review Your Insurance Policy: Make sure you have uninsured motorist and collision coverage.
Consider Increasing Your Coverage Limits: Higher limits provide better protection in case of serious damage or injury.
Install a Dashcam: A dashboard camera can provide evidence to identify the responsible driver.
Park in Well-Lit Areas: This reduces the risk of hit-and-runs in parking lots.

Final Thoughts

Hit-and-run accidents can be overwhelming, but having the right insurance coverage ensures financial protection and peace of mind. If you’re uncertain about what your policy covers, take the time to review it with your insurance provider. Additionally, consulting a car accident attorney in Utah can help you understand your legal options and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Being proactive can make all the difference if the unexpected occurs.