A hit-and-run is an automobile accident in which a driver leaves the scene after striking a pedestrian, another car, or an object. If you are hit by another driver leaving the scene and the responsible party cannot be found, your liability coverage will not be available to cover your damages. Your auto policy can help cover damages if you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident.
car insurance coverage that can cover a hit and run
A typical auto insurance policy includes coverages that may apply in the event of a hit-and-run accident. here are the toppings to consider:
Reading: What insurance covers hit and run
collision coverage
If your car is hit by another car in a hit-and-run accident, collision coverage will typically help cover damage to your vehicle. Collision coverage can help pay for repairs to your vehicle or the actual cash value of your vehicle if it is a total loss. Collision coverage is usually optional, but may be required when you have a loan or lease on your vehicle.
bodily injury coverage for uninsured motorists
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If you’re in a hit-and-run accident with an unidentified, underinsured, or uninsured driver, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (um/uim) can help. Generally, this coverage can help cover bodily injury damages for you and your passengers. it can also cover you as a pedestrian. uninsured and underinsured property damage coverage may be available to purchase separately. this generally covers damage to your property caused by the hit-and-run driver. Requirements for uninsured motorist coverage vary. um/uim can be complex, so contact your local independent agent or travel representative for more information.
medical payment coverage
Generally, if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, medical payments coverage (also known as medical payment) can cover medical expenses related to injuries to you or your passengers in an accident involving your vehicle, up to the limits of your policy. Medical payment coverage is generally optional. Med Pay may also cover you as a pedestrian if you are injured when a vehicle hits you. Coverages vary by state, so be sure to check with your travel representative or local independent agent to verify what your policy covers.
personal injury protection
If you’re involved in a hit-and-run, personal injury protection (PIP) typically helps provide coverage for medical expenses and may also provide coverage for lost wages, expenses like childcare, or household-related expenses while you’re away. you recover, and funeral expenses. coverage may vary and some states may require pip coverage.
what to do after a hit-and-run
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Being involved in any accident is stressful, but a hit and run accident can be scary. There are some important steps to take after a hit and run accident to help protect you and your passengers, and to help make it easier for you if you need to file a claim with your insurance company. After an accident, if possible, move your car to the side of the road. No matter what happens, turn on your car hazard lights and take action to prevent further accidents. Once you’re safe, check that everyone in your car is okay, and then call 911. If you can, try to get the license plate number or make and model of the car, but make your safety the first priority. contact the police as soon as it is safe to do so and do not chase the other driver.
keep your car insured
Unfortunately, not all drivers act responsibly. That’s why it’s important to have coverage that protects you in hit-and-run and other accidents where other drivers are at fault, don’t have insurance, or don’t have enough insurance. learn more about travelers auto insurance.
find a local independent agent or contact a travel representative to get an auto insurance quote today.
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