Dealing with a Hit and Run A Guide to Claiming Compensation in the UK

Introduction

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a frightening and frustrating experience. Not only are you dealing with the shock of the accident itself, but the additional stress of potential car damage and injuries adds another layer of complexity. Fortunately, in the UK, you may still be eligible to claim compensation even if the at-fault driver is unidentified. This guide will walk you through the process of dealing with your insurance company for a hit-and-run accident claim.

Eligibility Criteria and Time Limits

To claim compensation for a hit-and-run accident, you must meet specific criteria:

• The accident was reported to the police: Contact the police as soon as possible after the incident, ideally at the scene. Report all the details you can remember, including the time, location, and any descriptions of the hit-and-run vehicle.
• You have a valid car insurance policy: Most comprehensive and some third-party, fire, and theft (TPFT) policies will cover hit-and-run claims. Check your policy details for confirmation.
• You weren't partially at fault: If you contributed to the accident in any way, it could affect your eligibility or the amount of compensation received.

There's also a time limit for claiming. In most cases, you must report the accident to your insurance company within 14 days, although some policies may have shorter timeframes. It's crucial to act quickly to ensure your claim is valid.

Gathering Evidence

Securing evidence strengthens your claim significantly. Here's what you should collect:

• Police report: Obtain a copy of the police report filed after the accident.
• Witness statements: If anyone witnessed the accident, get their contact details and written statements describing what they saw.
• Scene photographs: Take pictures of the damage to your car, the accident scene, any debris, and surrounding landmarks.
• Dash cam footage: If you have a dash cam, check the footage for any recordings of the accident.
• Medical records: Seek medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident. Keep all medical records and receipts related to your treatment.

The more evidence you have, the easier it will be for your insurance company to assess the claim and determine the appropriate compensation.

Claiming Compensation

Once you have gathered your evidence, contact your insurance company and inform them about the hit-and-run accident. They will guide you through their specific claim process, which may involve:

• Formal claim submission: Fill out the claim form provided by your insurance company, providing detailed information about the accident and any injuries sustained.
• Vehicle assessment: Your insurance company may arrange for an assessor to inspect the damage to your car.
• Claim investigation: The insurance company will investigate the claim based on your report, police report, and gathered evidence.

Dealing with the Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB):

If the hit-and-run driver is not identified, you can claim compensation through the Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB). The MIB is a non-profit organization funded by the UK insurance industry that compensates victims of accidents involving uninsured or untraced drivers. They have a specific application process, so be sure to contact them for further guidance.

Claim Compensation Amounts

The amount of compensation you receive will depend on several factors, including:

• The severity of your injuries: More serious injuries will result in higher compensation.
• The cost of repairs to your car: The insurance company will cover the cost of repairs, minus any applicable deductible.
• Loss of earnings: If you're unable to work due to injuries sustained in the accident, you may be compensated for lost income.
• Out-of-pocket expenses: Keep receipts for any related expenses, such as car rentals or medical costs not covered by your health insurance.

It's important to note that hit-and-run claims are often complex, and the compensation amount may be subject to negotiation.

Process Steps to Get This Claim from Insurance Company

Here's a summarized process to follow:

1. Report the accident to the police as soon as possible.
2. Contact your insurance company and inform them about the claim.
3. Gather all relevant evidence, including police reports, witness statements, photos, medical records, and receipts.
4. Complete the claim form provided by your insurance company.
5. Cooperate with the insurance company's investigation process.
6. If the driver is not identified, contact the MIB to inquire about claiming through them.

Importance of Documentation

Throughout this process, documentation is key. Here's why:

• Strengthens your claim: Detailed records and evidence support the validity and severity of your claim.
• Aids negotiation: Having documented proof of damages, injuries, and expenses strengthens your position when negotiating compensation with your insurance company.
• Provides a clear timeline: Clear documentation helps establish the sequence of events and avoids any discrepancies during the claim process.
• Serves as legal evidence: In rare cases, documented evidence may become crucial if legal action becomes necessary.

Remember, the more organized you are with your documentation, the smoother the claim process will be.

Advantages of Understanding the Process

Knowing the process to deal with your insurance company for a hit-and-run claim offers several advantages:

• Reduced Stress: Understanding the steps involved helps you navigate the situation calmly and efficiently.
• Faster Claim Resolution: Knowing what documents and information are needed allows you to submit a complete claim from the start, speeding up the process.
• Informed Decision Making: By understanding the compensation factors, you can make informed decisions when negotiating with your insurance company.
• Increased Confidence: Knowledge empowers you to advocate for yourself and ensure a fair outcome for your claim.

Taking the time to understand the process empowers you to handle the situation with confidence and efficiency.

Conclusion

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a challenging experience. However, by understanding the eligibility criteria, evidence gathering, and claim process, you can increase your chances of receiving fair compensation from your insurance company or the MIB. Remember, acting quickly, gathering comprehensive documentation, and staying informed are crucial for a successful claim.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It's always advisable to consult a solicitor specializing in personal injury claims for specific guidance on your situation.

FAQs

1. Can I claim compensation after a hit-and-run accident?

Yes, even if the driver who caused the accident isn't identified, you may still be eligible to claim compensation in the UK. There are two routes:

• Through your insurance company: This applies if you have a comprehensive or some TPFT policies.
• Through the Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB): If the driver is untraced, the MIB can compensate victims of accidents involving uninsured or untraced drivers.

2. What evidence do I need for a hit-and-run claim?

The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim. Here's what to collect:

• Police report
• Witness statements
• Photos of the damage, scene, and surroundings
• Dash cam footage (if available)
• Medical records for any injuries
• Receipts for car repairs and related expenses

3. How long do I have to claim after a hit-and-run accident?

• Report to the police: As soon as possible, ideally at the scene.
• Inform your insurance company: Typically within 14 days, but check your policy for specifics.

4. What factors affect the compensation amount?

• Severity of injuries
• Car repair costs
• Lost income due to the accident
• Out-of-pocket expenses

5. What if my claim is denied by the insurance company?

If your claim is denied, you can try negotiating with them. You may also want to consider seeking legal advice from a solicitor specializing in personal injury claims.