Do Hit-and-Runs Get Covered by Comprehensive Car Insurance?

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A hit-and-run is a kind of accident where the driver of a vehicle flees the scene without stopping to exchange information with the other driver or render aid in case of injury. It’s a serious criminal offence, and the driver who flees the scene can face severe legal consequences. The question is, does comprehensive car insurance cover hit-and-runs, and the answer is yes!

Comprehensive car insurance is an optional type of four-wheeler insurance that protects your vehicle against damages caused by a collision with another vehicle. It also covers damages related to theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. While comprehensive car insurance does not typically cover injuries from hit-and-run accidents, some insurance providers may offer additional coverage options for hit-and-runs, so it’s always best to check with your insurance company for the specifics of your policy.

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Statistics of Hit and Run in India

The issue of hit-and-run accidents is a significant concern, with more than 20,000 people losing their lives in India alone. According to data from the road transport ministry, hit-and-run accidents accounted for 11.4% of all accidents in 2015, an increase from 10.9% in 2014. However, a survey conducted by the SaveLIFE Foundation and TNS India found that 74% of respondents were unwilling to assist victims of road accidents. Furthermore, a study published in the Indian Journal of Surgery in 2006 found that 80% of road accident victims do not receive medical care within the first hour after the accident.

Steps to be Taken When You Face Hit and Run for Easy Compensation

The primary challenge in hit-and-run cases is the lack of direct evidence linking the perpetrator to the crime scene. This makes it challenging for law enforcement to conduct an investigation. In addition, due to the speed of the vehicles involved and the chaos of the situation, witnesses may not be able to provide helpful information, and they may not want to become involved in the legal process and insurance claim.

So here are steps that need to be taken by the injured party when they face hit and run for easy compensation-

Gathering details of the offending car: In a hit-and-run accident, it is unlikely that you will be able to catch the driver, but if you can get the licence plate number or details of the car model, it can help try to locate the responsible party.
Finding witnesses: If you did not see the driver, it could be challenging to prove your case. Having witnesses who were present at the time of the accident and are willing to testify can help strengthen your claim. Be sure to take note of their contact information.
Photographic and video evidence: Pictures and video of the damages to your car and the accident scene can provide substantial evidence for your insurance claim. Take photos or look for security cameras that may have captured the incident.
Filing a First Information Report (FIR): An FIR is essential to raise a claim under your comprehensive insurance with full coverage. It is necessary to file an FIR immediately after the accident.
Notifying your insurance company: Informing your insurance company about the accident within 48 hours is essential. This will start the claim settlement process and help ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Steps to Raise a Claim for Compensation Due to Hit and Run

Reporting the hit-and-run accident: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to inform them about the hit-and-run accident and the damages sustained by your car. Be transparent about the details of the accident.
Damage assessment: After being notified, the insurance company will send a surveyor to assess the damages to your car.
Submitting required documents: You must provide the insurance company with all necessary documents related to the accident and your policy.
Repairs and claim settlement: Once the damage assessment is complete, your car will be sent to a network garage for repairs. The insurance company will settle your claim with the garage after the repairs are finished.

Conclusion

The rise in hit-and-run accidents and the lack of bystander assistance in road accidents highlight the importance of being prepared and protected in case of such incidents. Having coverage for hit-and-run accidents through car insurance can provide financial support in the event of an accident. Therefore, it is crucial to inform your insurance provider as soon as possible and to follow the necessary steps to ensure a smooth claim process.

What is covered in comprehensive car insurance?

Comprehensive car insurance typically covers a wide range of potential damages to your vehicle, including:

Injuries from a hit-and-run accident or an accident with an uninsured driver
Damages from natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, or earthquakes
Damages from theft or vandalism
Damages from fire or explosion
Third-party liability coverage for damages or injury to other people or their property
Personal accident cover for the policyholder
Coverage for medical expenses related to an accident

It is important to remember that coverage and specific details may vary from one insurance company to another and that some of these types of coverage may be optional or come with additional costs. Therefore, it is a good idea to carefully review the policy details and understand what is and isn’t covered under your comprehensive car insurance policy.

Does car insurance cover hit-and-runs?

Yes, comprehensive car insurance policies typically cover hit-and-run accidents, where the identity or details of the other driver cannot be determined. In these cases, the policyholder’s insurance policy can provide financial protection for any damages or injuries sustained. However, it’s essential to check the specific details of your policy to see what is covered and what is not, as coverage may vary among insurance providers and policies.