My car was hit in a parking lot by someone who didn’t have insurance, and they took off—a hit and run. I could go through my own insurance, but I’m worried it might raise my rates. The damage is just to the bumper, and it would need to be replaced, but for now, I can still drive the car. Any advice on what I should do, considering the damage isn’t that severe?
Don’t leave the scene or move your car. Locate the person who hit your car and exchange information (if possible) Take photos and contact the authorities to file a police report. Contact your insurer and file a claim if necessary.
It’s unfortunate to hear about your hit-and-run accident. While it might seem appealing to skip filing a claim to avoid possible rate increases, it’s important to weigh the long-term consequences. Here’s what you should consider doing:
- File a Police Report: Report the hit-and-run to the local police to create an official record of the incident.
- Document the Damage: Take comprehensive photos of the damage to your vehicle from various angles to support your claim.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurer about the accident. They will help you through the claims process and assess the damage.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If you have uninsured motorist coverage, it can cover your vehicle’s damage even if the at-fault driver is not identified.
- Negotiate with the Other Driver (If Found): If the responsible driver is identified later, you might be able to settle directly with them to potentially avoid making an insurance claim.
Regarding potential rate increases, it’s difficult to predict without knowing your specific insurer’s policies. Some companies may raise rates after a claim, even if it wasn’t your fault, while others might offer accident forgiveness programs for claims where you were not at fault.