How To Handle A Hit And Run Accident

By Graham McKenzie

You may be following the entire right rule while driving, being safe and protective as well as following all of the laws. The scariest part about driving for most people is not getting behind the wheel themselves but the fear of whom else is behind the wheel on the road. Not all follows the rules and that is how accidents happen.

The one rule you expect everyone to be following is to have insurance, it is against the law to drive without it so you expect that the cars on the road are all legal. The problem is that many people do drive with no insurance and they are the number one culprits for hit and runs.

When you are in an accident you look forward to other person will stay at the scene and wait for the police to be called, you can fill out a report, switch over insurance companies and then deal with the damage later after you are off the road. If you are involved in an accident with someone who does not have insurance or for some other reason they are not wanting to face the police you might not have this experience. You could be involved in an accident and see the car that caused it speed off and never to be seen again.

At the scene of an accident, the major rule is to remain calm. Do not start pointing fingers and trying to blame each other. Make sure that everyone keeps a cool head and this will go over much more smoothly. After that, make sure to document the license plate number. You do not want the person to run off never to be seen again.

A police report has to be filed for a hit and run incident no matter how small it is in order for your insurance company to be able to file a claim. If you have underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage or hold full coverage on your vehicle the insurance company will handle all the repair and medical expenses that were involved with the accident up to the limits of your policy.

You will be responsible for any deductible you have within your policy. Even though the accident is not your fault you will have to split over the deductible amount in order to have the insurance company cover the remaining costs. It may seem unreasonable but it is much better than being left with the total bill. In most cases hit and run drivers are not found if the driver of the vehicle involved does not think fast and take down the license plate number. If the police do find the culprit then you will be able to turn the matter over to your insurance company and they will charge the individual for the amount that is to be paid and if you choose that you can take them to civil court to be reimbursed your deductible and any other out of pocket expenses you may have encountered due to the accident. - 21392

About the Author:

Graham McKenzie is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Arica?s leading Car Insurance portal, which provides cover for all Car Insurance types.