Hit and Run in Texas: How to Handle Your Claim – Collision vs. UMPD
I recently experienced a hit-and-run incident where another driver backed into my car, causing minor damage to the rear bumper. Unfortunately, the other party left the scene before I could get any information about them.
After getting some estimates, the repair costs are around $1500. My collision coverage has a $1500 deductible, which is quite discouraging, but I also have Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) coverage with a $250 deductible, as required by Texas law.
I’d like to know how I can ensure that this claim is handled under UMPD instead of collision coverage. Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated!
In Texas, when dealing with a hit and run, it’s important to handle the claim correctly to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses. Here’s how you can ensure your claim is filed under UMPD (Uninsured Motorist Property Damage) instead of collision coverage:
Notify Your Insurance Company: As soon as possible, contact your insurance company to report the hit and run. Explain the situation clearly, emphasizing that you are the victim of a hit and run.
Specify UMPD Coverage: When filing the claim, explicitly state that you want the claim to be processed under your Uninsured Motorist Property Damage coverage. This is key, as your insurer may initially default to collision coverage unless you specify otherwise.
Provide Evidence: Gather any evidence you have related to the incident, such as photos of the damage, details of the scene, and a written account of what happened. Even if you didn’t see the other driver, providing as much context as possible can help reinforce that this is a hit and run.
Document Your Communication: Keep records of all communications with your insurance company. Note the dates, times, and names of the representatives you speak with. This will be useful if there are any disputes later on.
Review Your Policy: Double-check your insurance policy. Make sure you understand how your UMPD and collision coverage work and that you meet any requirements for filing a UMPD claim (like reporting the incident).
Follow Up: After you’ve filed the claim, follow up with your insurer to confirm that it’s being processed under UMPD. If they attempt to process it under collision, remind them of your request and refer to any previous communications where you specified UMPD.
By taking these steps, you should be able to direct your claim to UMPD and minimize your deductible. Good luck!