Hit and Run Accident Coverage in Car Insurance

Hit-and-run accidents are common in each state of India. Some accidents cause significant damage, while others have little impact on the vehicle and the lives of people. In an accident, more than one party is involved. One is the cause of an accident, and the other is the victim. Regardless of whether you caused the accident, you might be worried about the damage to your car or to yourself. However, it might make you feel better to know that your car insurance covers hit-and-run accidents. Continue reading to learn more about hit-and-run accident coverage. 

What is Considered as Hit and Run Accident? 

A hit-and-run accident is a case in which a faulty driver leaves the accident area and the victim suffers intentionally without providing his or her contact details. For example, if a speeding car hits you and then drives away without stopping, or if any driver hits your parked vehicle and leaves no contact information for damage recovery. 

What Should You Do Immediately Following a Hit and Run Accident? 

You should take the following actions right away following a hit-and-run accident, in accordance with Section 161 of the Indian Motor Vehicles Act. 

•  Take Note of Important Details: 

You must note the car's details, including the model, registration number, and colour of the car. Check the surrounding area to see if you can find any witnesses to the collision and obtain their contact information. Furthermore, you should gather information such as the accident site and timings, as well as photograph the accident scene. All this information will make your car insurance claim process much smoother and easier. 

• File an FIR: 

It is imperative that you report the occurrence to the closest police station if you are a victim of a hit-and-run. You should submit an FIR since it would strengthen your car insurance claim.

Hit and Run Car Insurance Claim Process 

• The Claim Enquiry Officer in each Taluk should receive a request from the accident victim or his attorney.
• Following the inquiry, the officer will submit a report to the Claims Settlement Commissioner along with the injury certificate or post-mortem report.
• Within 15 days of receiving the Claim Enquiry Officer's report, the District Collector or the Deputy Commissioner in the district will process the claim and provide the payment. The insurer's office will be informed of the punishment order.
• Such accident cases receive compensation from the Solatium Fund, which is pooled by India's general insurance sector.

Fixed Compensation by Government in Hit and Run Car Accidents

According to Section 161 of the Indian Motors Act, the victims of hit-and-run accidents get a fixed compensation amount from the government. The details are outlined in the table below. 

Conclusion 

Mishaps can happen anytime and bring a lot of financial trouble for you. Therefore, having a car insurance policy will let you live stress-free. In case of a hit-and-run accident, you can claim your insurance policy and get your vehicle damages covered.

Also Read: 

Process And Documents Required To Get NOC For Car