Few things are more frustrating for drivers than discovering their car has been hit and the other driver has disappeared. It can leave you dealing with damage, possible injuries, and no one to hold accountable. In those cases, the only real backup is your insurance policy through Guy Hurley McNeil serving Rochester Hills, MI, but how it responds depends on the type of coverage you carry.

Uninsured Motorist Protection

Uninsured motorist coverage often acts as the safety net in hit-and-run cases. Since the driver responsible can’t be tracked down, it’s treated the same way as being hit by someone with no insurance. This coverage can pay for medical bills and repairs, though how much depends on the limits of your policy. Not every plan includes it, so riders and drivers alike need to confirm whether it’s part of their protection before an accident happens.

Relying on Collision Coverage

If uninsured motorist protection isn’t available, collision coverage usually fills the gap. It doesn’t matter who was at fault; collision applies to damage from most accidents, including hit-and-runs. The catch is that you’ll still have to pay your deductible before the insurance company pays the rest. While that can sting, it’s better than covering the entire bill yourself when the responsible driver can’t be found.

What To Do Right After

Insurance aside, what you do in the minutes after a hit-and-run matters. Call the police, file a report, and take photos of the scene and damage. Details like time, place, and even possible witness statements help strengthen your claim. The more information you have, the easier it is for your insurer to move forward.

A hit-and-run is never convenient, but with the right coverage and careful follow-up, drivers can protect themselves from taking on the whole financial burden. Contact Guy Hurley McNeil serving Rochester Hills, MI to learn more.