Some tips for filing a hit-and-run claim

After a car accident, both drivers are expected to stop and exchange insurance information. Most drivers are considerate enough to provide their information, or at least leave a note, at the scene of the accident. This is not true of everyone, though. What happens if someone hits your vehicle and drives away? This is called a hit-and-run, and it is illegal.

If you are the victim of a hit-and-run, you no doubt have a lot on your mind. Filing an insurance claim while dealing with the fallout of an accident can be daunting. If you are filing a hit-and-run claim with your insurer, here are a few tips to help you along the way.

• Don’t attempt to follow the driver who hit you. Instead of hopping into your dinged-up car and chasing them down, contact the police. Law enforcement is much better equipped to locate the perpetrator than you are. Besides, remaining at the scene is crucial to preserve potential evidence about the accident.
• There are two types of insurance that cover hit-and-run accidents. Uninsured motorist bodily injury insurance can cover your medical expenses if you were injured in the accident. Uninsured motorist property damage insurance can cover repair to your vehicle. If your state does not offer either of these, hit-and-runs can sometimes be covered by personal injury or collision coverage.
• If you were able to identify the driver who hit your car, you can file a claim with his or her insurance company. Even if you could not identify the driver, you can still file a claim with your own company. Some states even waive your deductible in the event of a hit-and-run.
• A hit-and-run can still raise your insurance rates, even if you were not at fault. This may be incredibly frustrating—after all, you were not the at-fault party. If your insurance rates do increase, you may wish to contact an attorney specializing in hit-and-run accidents who can help you navigate the legal process.