A hit-and-run accident can be devastating. You may know or not know who hit your car. It can be confusing to claim compensation for the damages you suffered.
Isn’t it a nightmare not having the necessary details to claim insurance?
However, do not worry. There are several steps you can take amid confusion. Read on as we share some ways that you can do to help you can handle this unfortunate situation.
What is classified as a hit-and-run accident?
A hit-and-run accident can be described as a case where a driver hits another vehicle and does not stop afterwards. They intentionally leave the scene without providing contact details.
The following are examples of hit-and-run accidents:
- A vehicle hits you and speeds off without stopping
- A driver hits your unattended parked car, leaving no contact details for collection of damages
What to do after the accident?
How to claim in the event of a hit-and-run accident?
There may be a few types of hit-and-run situations that you may come across. After getting hit by an irresponsible driver, they may flee from the accident scene.
You may be fortunate if you manage to get a good look at their car for details. Examples are the car model and registration number. That little information could be enough for you to trace them.
However, in some cases, the driver may have sped off without giving you the chance to take a glance at their car – what more is the plate number? It would be difficult for you to trace them without any details in such a situation. Let us elaborate more about these possible scenarios and what can you do to claim insurance.
Scenario A: You have the car registration number
- Lodge a police report
Please go to the nearest police station to lodge a report. Make sure to do this within 24 hours after the accident. Provide the necessary details of the party at fault.
A police report is an important evidence to protect yourself against any unexpected third-party motor claims or personal injury claims.
- Report to your insurer
Make sure to inform your insurance company immediately about your situation. They will assist and advise you to take the necessary steps. For example, car repair and the procedure to file a claim.
You do not have to claim from your insurance policy. You can make a no-fault damage claim if you run into a car accident caused by a third party. In the event that you make a no-fault damage claim, there will be no effect on your NCD so you can keep it.
Scenario B: You do not have the car registration number
- Pay on your own
Send your car for repair and pay for it on your own without claiming from any insurance company (including your own). You can consider covering the cost of the damage if the damage is minor. You can retain your NCD rate this way.
- Claim from your insurance
You can claim from your insurance company for the repair cost under “Own Damage Claim”. However, this is only with the condition that you have comprehensive car insurance.
However, the downside is that you will lose your NCD entitlement.
Scenario C: The other party claims that the accident was your fault
You may expect another possible scenario to arise in which you are accused of causing the accident. This may be a problem to you if you do not have evidence or witness to counter the accusation.
If the police or court is unable to determine the party at fault, neither you nor the other party will win the claim. That said, you will not be able to claim from the other party. In this case, you can only claim from your own comprehensive policy, or pay for the damage yourself.
Scenario D: The other party is not insured
Lack of vehicle insurance is one reason why a driver might flee the scene of an accident.
You can appeal through legal means if the other party does not have valid insurance coverage.
If the court decides in your favour, then the other party will need to pay for your damages out of their pocket in addition to a fine by the court for driving illegally.
Be wary of your surroundings in the event of a hit-and-run accident
Many things can happen when you drive on the road or during the time you leave the car unattended. Either way, please be careful and alert of your surroundings.
Do not panic if you encounter any of the scenarios mentioned above. We hope this article will be helpful for you in the future. If you’re not sure how your policy will handle a hit-and-run, check with your insurance providers.
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