Are Hit and Run Accidents Covered by Insurance?

 Posted on March 14, 2025 in Car Accident

Illinois law requires drivers to remain at the scene of a car accident that causes injuries or fatalities. Although illegal, some drivers leave accident scenes without stopping to assist injured victims or waiting for police officers to arrive. When you know who caused a car accident, you can often file an insurance claim against the at-fault party’s liability insurance policy. When the driver flees, victims wonder whether they can pursue compensation.

Like so many other legal questions, the answer is, "It depends." Whether you are an injured victim or need to file a wrongful death claim after a hit-and-run took your loved one, a knowledgeable Palatine, IL personal injury lawyer can help.

What Should I Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident?

If you are injured in a hit-and-run crash, do not attempt to follow the fleeing driver. Instead, try to take photos or a video of the vehicle that hit you. Dial 911 to report your accident and give the dispatcher as many details as you can about the fleeing car, such as make, model, color, and direction of travel.

If other people are nearby and it is safe to do so, you can ask whether they noticed any details about the vehicle that could aid police searches. Nearby video cameras may have recorded the accident as it happened; if you see any, note their locations. Accept or seek a professional medical evaluation. That exam can diagnose your injuries and serve as evidence in your personal injury claim. Call our office as soon as possible. We can attempt to identify and locate the at-fault driver, and we can also start collecting evidence to support your claim.

How Can I File an Insurance Claim If the Fleeing Driver Is Not Found?

Insurance companies selling policies to drivers in Illinois are required to offer uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. You can purchase or opt out of this coverage. If you did add UI/UIM to your policy, your hit-and-run accident claim would be made against it.

Insurance policies have limits, or maximum amounts they will pay for a covered loss. Your UI/UIM limits determine how much compensation you could receive. If the payout does not cover your accident-related damages, you may have to pay the rest out of pocket. Your damages may include:

• Property damage

• Current and future lost income and medical expenses

• Ongoing care costs

• Pain and suffering

Wrongful death claims can provide additional damages to qualifying survivors.

Why Do I Need a Lawyer for a Hit-and-Run Claim?

Although you may be filing a claim with your own insurer, the company will probably not offer a reasonable settlement amount. Insurance companies typically try to protect their profits with little regard for the claimant’s best interests.

Not only will your lawyer investigate your accident to gather supporting evidence, but we will also fight on your behalf to see you collect as much compensation as you deserve. Many cases can be settled through negotiations, but we are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.

Call Our Dedicated Arlington Heights, IL Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers

With decades of combined experience, the skilled Schaumburg, IL car accident attorneys at Newland & Newland, LLP provide exceptional legal representation for victims of hit-and-run collisions. To find out more, call us at 847-797-8000 or message us online to arrange your free case review today.