The Ins and Outs of Dealing with a Hit-and-Run

If you’ve ever been involved in a hit-and-run accident, you know it’s extremely stressful. We’re here to help you navigate what to do if you ever experience this situation in your car.

You’re sitting a red light and suddenly you’re rear-ended by the car behind you. Shock hits and by the time you look back to see what happened, you see the car that hit you speed away. You’ve just experienced a hit-and-run accident - what should you do?

Unfortunately, many people are driving distractedly and that is causing accidents. Don’t worry, we have created an outline for you to follow.

A Straightforward Guide to Dealing with a Hit-and-Run

Pull off the road

When and if safe pull your car over to the side of the road. Don’t try chasing the person who caused the accident, as this can put you and others in danger.

Stay calm

Once you’ve pulled over it is important you stay calm, put on your hazard lights, shut your engine off and check on any passengers in the car. If anyone needs medical attention, call 911.

Contact the police

You might think the damage is minimal and you don’t need to call the police, however, a police report is required to start a claim. Furthermore, there could be issues with the car that you cannot see at the time.

Investigate (safely)

Do your best to get a description of the driver and the car that caused the hit-and-run. If possible, try and get a licence plate. Ask any passengers or bystanders for their account and if they have any further details. Also, in every accident, it is important to document with pictures.

Open your claim

Once a police report has been completed you can contact your insurance broker and start the claim process. Youngs Insurance has a dedicated claims department that will assist you after your accident.

We hope you never experience a hit-and-run, but if you do, your Youngs Insurance Broker will be there to help and ensure dealing with the aftermath is as stress-free as possible.

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