What Does Insurance Do When an Empty Parked Car is Hit and Run?

In today's world, auto accidents happen, and when one involves an empty parked car hit and run, the situation can be quite frustrating for drivers and insurance companies alike. This article explores what steps you can take and what your insurance company is likely to do in the aftermath of such incidents.

Steps After an Empty Parked Car Hit and Run

To begin with, if you are a victim of a hit and run, the first step is to make sure you document the scene and file a police report. This is crucial as it can later help in identifying and prosecuting the perpetrator. Additionally, if you have any security footage or witnesses, share these with the police to aid in the investigation.

Role of the Insurance Company

After a police report is obtained, the insurance company will assess your situation based on the terms of your insurance policy. Here's what generally happens:

If the vehicle is covered under collision insurance, the insurance company will pay for the necessary repairs to your car. This is crucial for ensuring that you can get your vehicle back on the road as soon as possible.

If the offending vehicle is identified, your insurance company will pursue the other driver's insurance for compensation. However, keep in mind that this would also be recorded as a not-at-fault collision on your insurance profile.

If the damage is minor and you can afford the repairs without involving your insurance, it might be easier to handle the situation yourself. However, depending on your insurance record, it may be worthwhile to consider either paying now or later.

Real-Life Scenario

I recount a personal experience where my wife discovered minor damage to our Subaru Legacy parked at a hotel. Initially, the incident was silent and the perpetrator chose not to face up to his mistake, fleeing the scene. However, with CCTV footage and the assistance of hotel security, the perpetrator was eventually apprehended. In the end, his insurance paid for the damage, amounting to $1200. The hit and run not only caused inconvenience but also resulted in a hefty price for everyone involved, especially the responsible party.

Consequences Without Insurance Coverage

If you don't have any insurance coverage in such an event, you'll have to shoulder the repairs on your own. Even if you can claim, it’s highly likely that your insurance rates will increase significantly for the next policy period. This underlines the importance of comprehensive insurance coverage.

Collision Coverage and Deductibles

For those who do have insurance, having collision coverage means that the insurance provider will take care of the repairs, less the collision deductible. The deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. It’s an important aspect of your insurance plan to understand, as it can affect the cost and the overall decision-making process when dealing with such incidents.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with a hit and run is never easy, but proper documentation, prompt action, and understanding your insurance coverage can help mitigate the impact. Remember, while the primary job is to summon the police, your insurance company can provide significant support in recovering your losses.