Does insurance cover a hit and run?

Imagine this: you get back to your car after grocery shopping, only to find someone has hit it and fled the scene. No note, no witnesses, just you and your damaged vehicle. 

It’s a frustrating experience, but it’s also a situation faced by many Canadians every year. This might get you thinking, “Does my insurance cover a hit and run?” 

The answer is based on a few different factors, so let's break it down.

What to do after a hit and run

First things first, if you’re involved in a hit and run, there are some important steps you should take. 

The quicker you act, the better chance you have of ensuring your claim is handled smoothly​.

Here’s what to do:

1. Stay calm and assess the situation: The most important thing to do after any collision is to make sure everyone involved is safe. If someone is injured, call 911 right away.
2. Document everything: Take photos of the damage, the surrounding area, and any potential evidence like tire marks or debris. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information and ask them to stay until the police arrive.
3. Contact the police: In most provinces, you’re required to report a hit and run to the police within 24 hours of the crash in order for it to be deemed a hit and run, especially if the damage exceeds a certain amount (usually around $2,000). 

Let your insurer know: The sooner you inform your insurance company, the better. Provide them with all the details you’ve collected, including the police report​.

Does insurance cover a hit and run?

So, does insurance cover a hit and run? The answer depends on the type of coverage you have​.

• Collision coverage: If you have collision coverage, you’re in luck. This type of insurance will typically cover the cost of repairs after your hit and run, minus your deductible, even if the at-fault driver can’t be identified. However, you’ll still need to pay the deductible out of pocket​.
• Uninsured motorist coverage: In some provinces, uninsured motorist coverage might step in if the at-fault driver is identified, but they don’t have insurance. This coverage can help pay for damages and medical expenses, so it’s worth checking if it’s included in your policy.
• Accident benefits: If you’re injured in the accident, your accident benefits coverage should apply, regardless of who is at fault. This can cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, and even income replacement if you’re unable to work.

While it’s reassuring to know that insurance can help, the specific items covered will depend on your individual policy, so it’s a good idea to review your coverage or speak with your insurance provider regularly.

Does insurance cover a hit and run for a parked car?

Yes, your car insurance will usually cover the cost to repair your vehicle if it was damaged in a hit and run, even if it was parked at the time.

This is one reason it’s so important to make sure your policy includes the following:

• Comprehensive coverage: If your car was parked when the hit and run occurred, comprehensive or all perils coverage may help cover the repairs. Like with collision coverage, you’ll need to pay your deductible, but the rest should be covered.
• Collision coverage: Collision coverage may also apply to hit and runs involving parked cars. Again, you’ll be on the hook for the deductible, but it’s a small price to pay for getting your vehicle back in shape.

It’s important to note: if you only have the minimum mandatory insurance, such as liability coverage, your insurance may not cover hit and run incidents. 

Checking your policy details or discussing options with your insurer can help clarify what’s covered.

Does a hit and run claim impact my insurance rate?

One of the biggest worries for drivers after a hit and run is how it will affect their auto insurance rates. The good news is that a hit and run claim won’t automatically result in a premium increase, assuming you weren’t at fault​.

However, this isn’t a guarantee. Insurance companies consider several factors when determining whether to raise your rates:

• Your claims history: If you have a history of multiple claims, your insurer might see you as a higher risk, leading to an increase in your premium, even if this claim wasn’t your fault​.
• Your deductible: Choosing a higher insurance deductible can sometimes help keep your premiums lower, even after a hit and run claim. However, it also means you’ll need to pay more out of pocket when making a claim.
• Your province: Insurance regulations vary across provinces, so how your rate is affected can depend on where you live​.

The best way to get a clear answer is to speak with your insurance provider. They can explain how a hit and run claim might impact your specific situation​.

The bottom line

A hit and run can feel like a nightmare, but knowing how your insurance policy handles these situations can provide some much-needed peace of mind. 

Whether your vehicle is damaged while parked or you’re involved in an accident on the road, your insurance will cover the costs – as long as you have the right coverage in place​. 

Remember to act quickly, document everything, and report the incident to the police and your insurer to ensure the best possible outcome. 

And don’t forget: it’s always worth reviewing your policy to understand exactly what’s covered before you need to make a claim.

Also read:

• Does insurance cover hail damage?
• What to do after an Alberta car accident
• Car theft: The top cities for stolen vehicles in Canada