Liability insurance protects a company or an individual from the risk of a lawsuit. This insurance offers protection against claims when a third party suffers injuries or losses of any kind. But does liability insurance cover hit-and-run? Let’s continue reading to find out!
When a driver flees from the spot after causing an accident, it is referred to as a hit-and-run. So, if someone hits your parked vehicle and leaves without contacting you, it is also considered a hit-and-run.
Hit-and-run is illegal and calls for criminal charges. While victims of such accidents often incur bodily or asset damages, there are different ways of covering the incurred damages through insurance.
As a general rule, liability insurance covers hit-and-run cases. If another car hits your vehicle, the auto liability coverage of the faulty driver will pay the repair costs of the damaged vehicle. As a victim, if you note the license plate of the at-fault car, you can claim from the faulty driver’s liability insurance.
However, in most hit-and-run cases, the fleeing perpetrator is not located. In such scenarios, your personal liability insurance will not cover medical or repair expenses.
If you cannot track the faulty driver and vehicle in a hit-and-run case, these other policies can help.
Uninsured motorist insurance – This policy offers coverage for injuries sustained by the passengers and the driver of the hit automobile.
Collision coverage – Whether you are hit by another car or hit another vehicle, this insurance pays for all the damages, irrespective of whose fault it is. This policy comes with deductibles, which means you will have to pay a certain amount of money even if you are not at fault.
Medical payments coverage – This policy covers the medical bills of passengers and drivers in a hit-and-run accident.
Personal injury protection – With a personal injury protection policy, you will have assistance with medical expenses for yourself and other passengers in a hit-and-run accident. The policy also covers lost wages and childcare.
Hit-and-run accidents are scary. You can do the following things to mitigate damages and keep everyone safe.
Safety is of prime importance – Park your car in a safe place and see that everyone is okay. Turn on the hazard lights. Try noting down the license plate number of the faulty vehicle.
Contact the police immediately – Contact the police immediately and file a report within 24 hours of the accident. Provide as many details as possible.
Gather evidence – Try gathering as many proofs as possible. Click photos of the damage caused. Look for eyewitnesses. Check if there was a CCTV camera where the incident took place.
Get in touch with your insurance provider – Contact the insurance company. Keep the documentation perfect so that settling the claim is smooth.
Kneller Insurance Agency offers liability insurance for residents in and around Columbia County, NY. We offer commercial as well as personal liability insurance. Contact us today to learn more about hit-and-run coverage options. You can also call us at +1 (518) 392-9311 for further assistance.
