A hit-and-run accident is one in which the responsible party does not stay at the scene. In some cases, the driver does not acknowledge that he or she did anything wrong. In other situations, the person flees due to legal concerns and thinks by leaving, he or she can avoid the consequences of the accident. In any case, you end up with damage to your vehicle and injuries for which you need compensation.
When a hit-and-run happens in other states and you cannot find the driver, you can make a claim to your own insurance for the damages. However, California is a little different. The law here prohibits you from making a claim on your own insurance for a hit-and-run unless you can identify the other driver.
Pursuing compensation
If you identify the driver who struck your vehicle, you can pursue compensation from that person. You will not need to make a claim to your own insurance unless that person has no insurance or otherwise is unable to pay. If at all possible, take a picture of the plate number of the vehicle that struck yours or try to remember it and write it down as soon as the accident happens.
Making a claim
You can make a claim for medical expenses related to the accident on your own insurance even if you do not know the identity of the other driver. The law only bars you from claiming property damage on your uninsured motorist coverage.
Paying the deductible
You would not have to pay a deductible if you make a claim to your uninsured coverage. However, if you make a claim on your collision coverage instead, you will have to pay for the deductible. Most deductibles range between $250 and $1,000.
No matter what happens, if you cannot identify the driver who hit you, you end up paying at least something out of your pocket.
