Few things are more frustrating—and frightening—than being involved in a car accident only to watch the other driver speed away. Hit-and-run accidents leave victims with damage, injuries, and uncertainty about who will pay for it all.
If you’ve been in a hit-and-run, you’re not alone. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a hit-and-run occurs every 43 seconds in the U.S. These incidents can happen anywhere: in parking lots, at intersections, or even while parked on the street.
The good news? You still have legal options. Here’s how to file a hit-and-run accident claim and protect your right to compensation—even if the other driver is never found.
What Counts as a Hit-and-Run?
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver causes an accident and leaves the scene without providing their contact or insurance information. This can involve:
- Colliding with another vehicle and fleeing before police arrive.
- Hitting a pedestrian or cyclist and driving off.
- Causing property damage (like hitting a parked car or mailbox) and leaving without reporting it.
Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense in most states. But beyond criminal penalties, it creates serious civil issues for victims—especially when it comes to covering medical bills, lost wages, and repair costs.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run
Your safety and quick action are critical. If the driver flees the scene, take the following steps:
- Call 911 Immediately
Report the accident to law enforcement. Even if you’re unsure of the extent of your injuries, get medical help. The police report is vital for your claim. - Document Everything
- Note the make, model, and color of the fleeing vehicle.
- Write down any part of the license plate you saw.
- Record the time, location, and direction the vehicle was headed.
- Note the make, model, and color of the fleeing vehicle.
- Look for Witnesses
Witness statements can make or break your case. Ask nearby pedestrians or drivers if they saw the incident and can describe the other vehicle. - Check for Cameras
Surveillance cameras at nearby businesses, traffic lights, or homes often capture valuable footage. Ask for copies as soon as possible before the video is overwritten. - Take Photos of the Scene
Capture vehicle damage, skid marks, and surroundings. This helps establish how the accident happened. - Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurer right away. But avoid making detailed recorded statements until you’ve spoken to an attorney.
Filing a Hit-and-Run Accident Claim
Even if the other driver isn’t found, you can still recover damages through your own insurance policy. Here’s how the process works:
1. Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
This coverage protects you when the at-fault driver has no insurance—or flees and can’t be identified. UM coverage can pay for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
If you don’t have UM coverage, talk to your attorney about other potential options based on your state’s laws.
2. Collision Coverage
If your policy includes collision coverage, it can help pay for repairs to your vehicle regardless of who’s at fault. However, you may need to pay a deductible.
3. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or MedPay
Depending on your state, these coverages may pay for medical bills and lost income, even without determining fault.
4. State Victim Compensation Funds
In some cases, you might qualify for state-sponsored victim funds that assist hit-and-run victims with medical and funeral costs.
What If the Hit-and-Run Driver Is Found?
If the police identify the driver, your claim process changes. You can file a liability claim against their insurance company to recover:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, your UM coverage can still step in to cover remaining damages.
Common Challenges in Hit-and-Run Claims
Filing a hit-and-run accident claim isn’t always straightforward. Victims often face challenges such as:
- Lack of evidence or witnesses
- Insurance disputes over coverage eligibility
- Delays in police investigations
- Low settlement offers from insurers
Insurance companies may even suggest that you caused the crash or fabricated the claim. That’s why working with a personal injury lawyer experienced in hit-and-run cases is crucial.
How a Lawyer Can Help
A personal injury attorney can help you:
- Gather evidence such as witness statements, photos, and surveillance footage.
- File and manage your insurance claim efficiently.
- Negotiate with your insurer to prevent unfair denials or lowball offers.
- Explore alternative recovery options, such as pursuing the at-fault driver once identified.
Lawyers can also work with accident reconstruction experts to prove how the incident occurred and strengthen your case.
How Long Do You Have to File a Hit-and-Run Claim?
Every state has a statute of limitations—a time limit for filing your personal injury claim. In many states, this window is between two and three years from the date of the accident.
However, insurance companies often require immediate notice for uninsured motorist claims. Failing to report promptly could jeopardize your coverage.
That’s why it’s essential to act quickly—contacting an attorney right away ensures deadlines are met, evidence is preserved, and your claim remains valid.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Depending on your case, you may be eligible to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills (including future treatments)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Emotional distress
Your attorney can calculate the full value of your claim and make sure the insurance company doesn’t settle for less than you deserve.
Final Thoughts
A hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling helpless—but you have rights and legal protections. Even if the at-fault driver disappears, you can still pursue justice through your insurance and, in some cases, state victim programs.
Don’t let an insurance company deny your rightful compensation. With the right legal help, you can rebuild financially and emotionally after a hit-and-run.
👉 Take action today. Schedule your Free Case Evaluation to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you file a claim, handle your insurer, and fight for the settlement you deserve.
✅ Focus Key Phrase for SEO: hit-and-run accident claim
