Hit-and-Run Damaged Your Car: What to Do and How to Recover Costs Legally

You walk out to your parked car and notice a dented bumper, shattered mirror, or worse—major body damage. There’s no note, no driver waiting, and no one around to explain what happened. You’ve just been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, and now you're left with damage, frustration, and questions.

Whether it happened while your car was parked or during a traffic incident where the other driver fled, a hit-and-run can be shocking and infuriating. The good news is: you have legal options and protections, even if the other driver can’t be identified right away.

This guide walks you through what to do immediately after a hit-and-run, how to file police and insurance reports, and how to pursue compensation—so you’re not stuck footing the bill for someone else’s recklessness.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Scene

It’s natural to feel angry or upset, but staying calm will help you think clearly and protect your claim.

Here’s what to do right away:

• Check for injuries if you were inside the vehicle or near the impact
• If you're in traffic or on the road, move to a safe location
• Call 911 if anyone is injured or if there's significant damage
• Do not chase the fleeing driver—it’s dangerous and could complicate legal matters

Instead, focus on documenting everything and alerting authorities.

Step 2: Gather Evidence at the Scene

Even if the other driver is gone, evidence can help identify them or support your insurance claim. Take the time to record:

• Photos of the damage to your car from multiple angles
• Close-ups of paint transfer, tire marks, broken parts, or debris from the other vehicle
• A wider shot of the scene, showing where your car was parked or impacted
• Date, time, and location of the incident
• Any surveillance cameras nearby (homes, businesses, streetlights) that may have captured the event
• Witness statements or contact info—ask passersby if they saw anything or took video

The more detailed your documentation, the stronger your case with both the police and your insurance provider.

Step 3: Report the Incident to the Police

Always file a police report as soon as possible after a hit-and-run. Even if you’re not injured and the damage is minor, an official report:

• Provides a record of the incident
• Is often required for insurance claims
• May lead to identifying the responsible driver through investigation
• Helps establish that you were not at fault

Give the police as much information as you can, including:

• Time and location of the hit-and-run
• What you saw or heard (e.g., a loud crash, a fleeing vehicle)
• Any potential suspect vehicle descriptions (color, make, partial plate)
• Surveillance footage or witness accounts, if available

Ask for a copy of the police report number, as you'll need it for your insurance claim.

Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company

Next, contact your auto insurance provider to file a claim. Most companies allow you to report a hit-and-run online, by phone, or through a mobile app.

When filing, be ready to provide:

• A copy or reference number for the police report
• Photos of the damage
• Any witness statements or video evidence
• The location, time, and details of the incident
• A list of damaged parts (e.g., bumper, side panel, taillights)

Your insurance company will assess the claim, assign an adjuster, and help you understand what coverage applies.

Step 5: Understand Your Insurance Coverage

Whether or not you’ll receive compensation—and how much—depends on your insurance policy. Here’s how different types of coverage apply:

🚗 Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD)

• Covers vehicle damage caused by a driver who is uninsured or cannot be identified (e.g., hit-and-run).
• Not available in all states, and may have limits or deductibles.
• May require a police report to be filed promptly.

🚗 Collision Coverage

• Pays for repairs to your vehicle regardless of fault.
• Often subject to a deductible.
• Typically the easiest path to reimbursement after a hit-and-run, if you have it.

🚗 Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Payments (MedPay)

• Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, even if the other driver is unidentified.

If you only carry liability insurance, you may have limited options unless you add UMPD or collision to your policy. In that case, you may need to pursue the other driver—if they’re identified—through small claims or civil court.

Step 6: Follow Up with Police and Investigators

If the police begin an investigation, cooperate fully. Provide updates if:

• You discover new evidence (like surveillance footage)
• A witness comes forward later
• You see a vehicle in your area that matches the description

In some cases, the police may identify the driver and charge them with leaving the scene of an accident, which is a crime in all 50 states.

If the driver is caught, you may be able to:

• File a claim against their insurance
• Sue them in civil court for damages
• Request restitution through the criminal justice system

Step 7: Consider Legal Action if the Driver Is Found

If the hit-and-run driver is identified but refuses to pay or lacks insurance, you may need to file a small claims lawsuit or hire a personal injury or property damage attorney.

Through a civil suit, you can seek compensation for:

• Vehicle repair or replacement costs
• Medical bills
• Lost wages (if the damage prevented you from commuting to work)
• Pain and suffering, in some cases

The court may award you a judgment, which can be collected through wage garnishment or other means—but this process can take time and may depend on the driver’s financial situation.

Step 8: Take Steps to Protect Yourself in the Future

While you can’t prevent every hit-and-run, there are steps you can take to reduce risk and protect yourself legally:

• Add uninsured motorist and collision coverage to your insurance policy
• Install a dash cam or security camera where you park
• Park in well-lit, visible areas whenever possible
• Keep a basic car incident kit (pen, notepad, flashlight, phone charger)
• Know your policy deductibles and limits before you need them

Final Thoughts

A hit-and-run is more than just a car accident—it’s a violation of your trust and your property. But you don’t have to absorb the cost or frustration alone. With proper documentation, timely police reporting, and insurance guidance, you can pursue compensation and minimize the financial impact.

And while it might feel unfair in the moment, remember: you have rights, and the law is on your side—even when the other driver isn’t.

Don’t Be Afraid To Get Help

If you’re facing legal questions, safety concerns, or emotional turmoil due to any of the situations described above—especially domestic abuse—don’t try to handle it alone. Professional guidance can make all the difference in ensuring your rights are protected and your next steps are clear. Whether you need legal advice, help with documentation, or assistance navigating local resources, speaking to an expert can bring peace of mind. Click here to get connected with professional support tailored to your situation.