Picture this: you’re driving along, minding your own business, when suddenly, another vehicle collides with yours. The shock and dismay that ensue are heightened when the other driver leaves the scene, leaving you with a damaged vehicle and a myriad of unanswered questions.
The uncertainty surrounding insurance coverage for hit and run accidents is a concern for anyone who has experienced the frustration of such situations. Does insurance cover hit and run accidents? In general, yes, but hit and run accident insurance claims can still be a challenging process.
In this blog, we will delve into the specifics of hit and run accidents and explore how insurance companies handle these cases.
Hit and Run Incidents: What to Do
When you find yourself the victim of a hit and run accident, the first course of action is to gather as much information as possible. This information can make a significant difference in your ability to file a claim with your insurance company and potentially bring the responsible driver to justice.
- Vehicle Details: Try to remember and note down the make, model, and colour of the fleeing vehicle. Even if you can recall just part of the license plate, it can be immensely helpful.
- Witness Information: Talk to anyone who might have witnessed the accident and take note of their contact information if they recall the details of the situation.
- Report the hit and run incident to the police: It’s important to file a police report within 24 hours of the hit and run.
- Reach out to your auto insurance provider: Once you file a police report, contact your insurer to open a claim.
- Contact a car accident lawyer: Car accident lawyers are key to protecting your rights throughout the hit and run insurance claim process and ensuring you are treated fairly under the law.
Insurance Coverage for Hit and Run Accidents
- Collision Coverage: In cases where the at-fault driver cannot be identified, coverage is usually paid out under the collision coverage of your car insurance policy.
- Identifying the At-Fault Driver: If you can identify the responsible driver, your insurance will pay for the damages under the Direct Compensation Property Damage (DCPD) portion of your auto insurance policy.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If the motorist is identified and they do not have car insurance, uninsured motorist coverage will apply, which is standard in most policies.
The Role of Car Accident Lawyers
Victims of hit and run accidents often find themselves in the difficult situation of having to navigate the complexities of hit and run claims without any knowledge of how they work.
Just like any other claim, insurance companies investigate hit and run accidents to verify the authenticity of the claim along with the extent of the damages. This is where the help of car accident lawyers becomes invaluable.
Car accident lawyers are well-versed in the intricacies of hit and run claims. They understand the unique challenges that hit and runs present, and they know how to ensure your rights are protected.
They can assist in gathering crucial evidence, and guiding you through the claims process. By entrusting your case to an experienced car accident lawyer, you not only alleviate the stress of dealing with a hit and run claim but can also increase the likelihood of a successful resolution.
Kalsi & Associates – Support for Your Hit-and-Run Claim
In the aftermath of a hit and run accident, the good news is that insurance companies typically provide coverage to help you recover from the damages.
If you ever find yourself a victim of a hit and run, remember that you’re not alone. At Kalsi & Associates, our experienced car accident lawyers are here to guide you through the process, ensuring you receive the support and accident benefits you deserve. Your recovery is our priority.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for legal assistance.
