Getting hit by a hit-and-run driver can be one of the most frustrating and stressful experiences after a car accident.
One moment you are driving normally… and the next, the other driver disappears before you can even exchange information.
Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents are very common in California, especially in busy areas like:
- Anaheim
- Santa Ana
- Westminster
- Garden Grove
If you are ever involved in a hit-and-run accident, knowing what to do immediately afterward can help protect:
- your safety
- your insurance claim
- your ability to recover damages
At Starwest Insurance Services, we help drivers understand how hit-and-run claims work and what coverages may apply.
Step 1 — Stay Calm and Check for Injuries
Your first priority is safety.
Check:
- yourself
- passengers
- others involved
If anyone is injured:
- call 911 immediately
- request medical assistance
Do NOT chase the other driver.
That can create additional danger and liability.
Step 2 — Call the Police
Always file a police report after a hit-and-run accident.
This is extremely important because:
- insurance companies often require it
- it helps document the incident
- it may help identify the driver later
Try to provide:
- vehicle description
- license plate (even partial)
- direction the vehicle fled
- time/location of accident
- witness information
Step 3 — Take Photos and Gather Evidence
Document everything you can at the scene:
- damage to your vehicle
- debris
- skid marks
- nearby cameras
- intersection signs
- surrounding vehicles
If witnesses saw the accident:
- get names
- get phone numbers
- ask for statements if possible
Security cameras from:
- homes
- businesses
- traffic intersections
may also help identify the vehicle.
Step 4 — Notify Your Insurance Company Quickly
Report the claim as soon as possible.
The sooner you notify your insurance company, the smoother the claims process usually becomes.
Your insurance company may ask for:
- police report number
- photos
- witness information
- accident details
What Insurance Covers Hit-and-Run Accidents?
This depends on the coverages on your auto policy.
Collision Coverage
Collision coverage may help repair your vehicle even if the hit-and-run driver is never found.
You would typically pay your deductible first.
Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI)
In California, a hit-and-run driver is often treated similarly to an uninsured driver.
UMBI may help pay for:
- medical bills
- lost wages
- pain and suffering
if you are injured.
Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD)
California offers optional uninsured motorist property damage coverage.
This may help cover vehicle damage caused by an uninsured or hit-and-run driver.
However:
- California UMPD has limitations
- maximum coverage is usually lower
- collision coverage often provides broader protection
What If I Only Have Liability Insurance?
If you only carry liability insurance and no collision coverage, you may have very limited coverage for damage to your own vehicle after a hit-and-run accident.
That is why reviewing your coverage before an accident happens is so important.
California Minimum Coverage May Not Be Enough
California minimum limits are currently:
- 30/60/15
That means:
- $30,000 bodily injury per person
- $60,000 bodily injury per accident
- $15,000 property damage
Unfortunately, many drivers either:
- carry minimum coverage
- have no insurance at all
That increases the importance of:
- uninsured motorist coverage
- collision coverage
Common Mistakes After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Chasing the Driver
This can create more danger and legal problems.
Not Calling Police
Without a police report, insurance claims may become harder.
Waiting Too Long to Report the Claim
Delays can complicate investigations.
Not Taking Photos
Evidence disappears quickly after accidents.
How Long Does a Hit-and-Run Claim Take?
Every claim is different.
Factors affecting claim time include:
- injuries involved
- witness availability
- police investigation
- repair estimates
- insurance coverage questions
Some claims resolve quickly, while others may take weeks or months.
Final Thoughts
Being hit by a hit-and-run driver is frustrating, but taking the right steps immediately afterward can help protect both your health and your insurance claim.
The most important things to remember:
- stay safe
- call police
- document everything
- notify your insurance company quickly
Having the right auto insurance coverage before an accident happens can make a major difference financially.
If you would like us to review your auto insurance policy and explain your collision, uninsured motorist, or Med Pay coverage, we are happy to help.
Text me at 714-867-7799 or call the office 714-893-7271.