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Someone Hit My Car and Drove off, What Do I Do?
Discovering that someone has hit your car and driven off can be a frustrating and distressing experience. However, it is important to remain calm and take immediate action. Here are a few steps you should follow if you find yourself in such a situation in the United Kingdom:
1. Assess the situation: Check for any witnesses, security cameras, or nearby businesses that may have captured the incident on tape. Take pictures of the damage caused to your vehicle.
2. Report the incident: Contact the police immediately and provide them with all the relevant details. They will issue you with a crime reference number, which you will need for insurance purposes.
3. Inform your insurer: Contact your insurance company and report the hit-and-run incident. Provide them with the police crime reference number and any other necessary information. They will guide you through the claims process.
4. Gather evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible, such as witness statements, CCTV footage, and photographs of the scene. This will be useful for both the police investigation and your insurance claim.
5. Repair your vehicle: Get your car repaired at a trusted garage. Inform them about the hit-and-run incident and provide them with any necessary documentation. Keep all receipts and invoices related to the repairs.
6. Check your policy: Review your insurance policy to understand the coverage you have for hit-and-run incidents. Some policies may have provisions for uninsured driver claims, while others may require you to pay an excess.
7. Follow up with the police and insurance company: Stay in touch with the police to inquire about any progress in their investigation. Maintain regular communication with your insurance company to ensure a smooth claims process.
FAQs:
1. Will my insurance cover a hit-and-run accident?
Most comprehensive insurance policies in the UK cover hit-and-run incidents, but check your specific policy to be sure.
2. Do I need to report the incident to the police?
Yes, it is crucial to report the hit-and-run incident to the police as soon as possible.
3. What if I didn’t get the license plate of the other vehicle?
Provide the police with any other identifying information, such as the make, model, and color of the vehicle, as well as the time and location of the incident.
4. Can I claim compensation if the culprit is not found?
If the culprit is not found, you may still be able to make an uninsured driver claim through your insurance company.
5. How long do I have to report the incident to my insurer?
It is recommended to report the hit-and-run incident to your insurer as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours.
6. Will my no-claims bonus be affected?
If you have comprehensive insurance and the incident is classified as a hit-and-run, your no-claims bonus may not be affected. However, confirm this with your insurance provider.
7. Can I appeal for CCTV footage from nearby businesses?
Yes, you can request CCTV footage from nearby businesses, but they are not obligated to provide it.
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