What To Do If You’re In A Hit And Run Accident

You’re driving to work, picking up the kids or traveling to see a friend, when the unimaginable happens. Somebody hits your car and flees the scene. What should you do to have the best outcome with your auto insurance claim?

If you or anyone else is hurt, call 9-1-1 immediately. And if possible, remove your vehicle from traffic. Then, gather as much information as you can so that your car insurance company can process your claim quickly.

What To Do At The Scene

The most valuable information to gather includes details about the hit-and-run driver and their vehicle:

• What is the vehicle make, model and color?
• Did you or anyone else see unique marks on the vehicle, such as bumper stickers or dents?
• Do you remember any part of the license plate?
• What did the driver look like?
• Do you remember other details about the crash?

Take pictures of the scene and ask witnesses for their contact information.

Following The Accident

In some ways, a hit-and-run isn’t much different than other auto insurance claims. Start by reporting the incident to your ACF Insurance agent, so they can start to collect information about the accident. It’s important to stay in touch with the police and your insurance company and answer any questions they may have quickly.

You should also keep a record of medical treatment and pain experienced due to the accident. If you have to miss work or need to replace your vehicle, keep track of all related expenses. Share these with your agent.

Insurance Claims Process

Generally, hit-and-run accidents fall under your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Some states don’t require a deductible for hit-and-runs. Other states include them under medical, personal injury protection or collision coverage. For drivers identified later, the claim is processed under your regular car insurance policy. However, the insurer will likely try to recoup losses from the other driver.

Check with your ACF Insurance agent for more information on how your state laws affect how your claim is processed and whether you are entitled to any other compensation.

Any accident can stress you out and disrupt your life, and hit-and-runs take even more of a toll. However, keeping a cool head and documenting the details of the accident and your recovery can help you prepare for the claims process.

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