Hit and Run Incident in Texas: Who Determines If It’s Collision or UMPD?
I recently experienced a hit and run where my rear bumper sustained minor damage after another vehicle backed into it. Unfortunately, the driver left the scene before I could gather any information.
I’ve received repair estimates from local body shops, and they’re coming in around $1500. My collision coverage has a deductible of $1500, but I also have Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) with a lower deductible of $250, which is required by Texas law.
I’m looking for advice on how to ensure this claim is processed under UMPD rather than my collision coverage. Any tips would be greatly appreciated!
In your situation, it’s understandable to want to ensure that your claim is filed under Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) rather than collision coverage, especially since you have a lower deductible for UMPD. Here are some steps you can take to help ensure that your claim is processed correctly:
Contact Your Insurance Company: Reach out to your insurance provider and explain the situation in detail. Make sure to clarify that you believe the hit and run driver should be covered under UMPD, given that you were not at fault and the other driver fled the scene.
Provide Evidence: If possible, gather any evidence that supports your claim. This could include photos of the damage, witness statements, or anything that indicates that another party was responsible for the damage and that they were at fault.
File a Police Report: If you haven’t already, file a police report about the hit and run. In Texas, it’s important to have a report on file for UMPD claims, as it demonstrates that you took appropriate steps after the incident.
Explicitly State Your Intentions: When you file your claim, explicitly state that you want this claim to be processed under UMPD. Make it clear that you do not wish to use your collision coverage due to the deductible difference.
Follow Up: After initiating the claim, regularly follow up with your insurance adjuster to ensure that your claim is being processed as a UMPD claim.
Review Your Policy: Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy regarding UMPD and collision coverage. This can help you understand the requirements and ensure that your claim is being handled properly.
By being proactive and communicating clearly with your insurance company, you can increase the likelihood that your claim will be processed under UMPD instead of collision coverage. Good luck!