You’re the victim in the accident, so you shouldn’t have to pay.
It happens in a split second. One moment you’re driving on your regular commute to work when suddenly a driver comes out of nowhere and strikes your vehicle. Then, just as quickly as they came, they leave.
You were just a victim of a hit and run accident.
Getting in a car accident is bad enough. When it’s the other person’s fault and they flee the scene, it’s much worse. You’re hurt. Your car is damaged. And now, you’re forced to foot the bill.
Hit and Run Accidents and Your Insurance
In most states, Missouri included, your auto insurance will cover at least a portion of the cost of a hit and run accident.
The term hit and run accident refers to a driver who knowingly hit a car, a piece of property, or a person and then fled the scene without exchanging information. When this happens, there are three types of coverage that kick in as liability insurance to protect you. These include:
- Uninsured motorist coverage bodily injury, which covers the cost of your injuries.
- Uninsured motorist property damage, which covers the cost of property damage to your car.
Most of the policies we offer at McGrath Insurance Group include this coverage for accidents like hit and run collisions.
What if You Can Identify the Car That Hit You?
In spite of having uninsured motorist coverage as protection in an accident, you still want the other driver to pay for the pain they caused.
Did you get the license plate number of the person who hit you? Do you have any details that could help identify the car that hit you, such as distinctive designs or custom work?
This and any other identifying information should be passed over to the police as soon as you have it. That way, they can track down the other driver and recoup payment for your injuries and property damage.
What Should You Do if Someone Hits Your Car and then Leaves?
If you’re a victim of a hit and run, one thing is certain – your head is spinning with what just happened. It’s easy to forget the steps you’re “supposed to” take in this situation.
Here’s what you should do to protect yourself after being in a collision.
- Make sure everyone is okay. Accidents can cause serious bodily injury. Pull over to a safe location and make sure you and your passengers are okay.
- Call 911. Regardless of whether anyone is injured, you need to file a police report. Call 911 and let the dispatcher know what just happened. You should also advise the dispatcher about any injuries.
- Get a pen and paper. Write down as much as you can remember about the other vehicle. Did you see any part of the license plate? Did you notice anything distinct about the other car, such as the color, make, or model? Write down as much as you can remember while you wait for the police to arrive.
- Call your insurance agency You have insurance to protect you during times like these. Give us a call and we’ll walk you through every step that needs to happen from here.
You’re already in enough pain and discomfort after a car accident. Let us help you make it a little bit easier to manage.
Not sure if you have uninsured motorist coverage? Call us and we’ll take a look at your policy to verify whether you’re covered or not.
