Help with Hit and Run Third-Party Claim
I need some advice regarding a hit and run incident involving my vehicle. I let a sober friend drive my car home while I was intoxicated. Unfortunately, we were struck by a drunk driver who was clearly at fault and driving recklessly. The accident occurred just 40 feet from the driver’s home, and after the collision, he went inside his house and left his car parked outside.
When the police arrived, they classified the incident as a hit and run because the driver retreated into his home. However, I gathered evidence, including a picture of his license plate, and he remained at the scene for about 20 minutes before going inside. He didn’t provide any insurance or personal information, but I managed to find out his insurance company through a conversation his girlfriend had with one of my passengers.
Given the circumstances, I filed a third-party claim against his insurance. Can anyone provide insights on how a third-party claim works when it has been categorized as a hit and run? I believe the evidence I have, particularly the driver being present for 20 minutes, strengthens my case. Thank you!
It sounds like you’re in a challenging situation, but it seems like you have some solid evidence to support your case. Here are some steps and advice on how a third-party claim might work in your scenario:
Stay Organized: Keep all your evidence in one place. This should include the police report, photos of the scene, pictures of the driver’s license plate, and any witness statements, including what the girlfriend said about the insurance company.
Contact the Insurance Company: Since you’ve already filed a claim with the driver’s insurance, stay in contact with them. Make sure they are aware of the police report classification as a hit and run but also provide them with your evidence that the driver was present for a significant time. This can help show that you have a strong case.
Provide Comprehensive Documentation: When dealing with the insurance adjuster, be prepared to provide detailed documentation including medical reports (if applicable), repair estimates for your vehicle, and any other evidence that showcases your damages and losses.
Follow Up: Keep following up with the insurance company regarding the status of your claim. Insurance claims can take some time, and persistence can help ensure your claim doesn’t get overlooked.
Consult a Lawyer: Given the complexities of your situation, especially since it involves a hit and run situation with a drunk driver, consulting with a personal injury attorney could be beneficial. They can provide more tailored advice and guide you through the process.
Consider Your Own Insurance: If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (if you live in a state that allows it), consider filing a claim with your own insurance policy as well. This can sometimes expedite compensation for damages, depending on your coverage.
Document Everything: As you navigate this process, make sure to document all interactions with insurance representatives, including dates, times, and what was discussed.
Patience and Persistence: Unfortunately, insurance claims can often take a while to resolve, so patience and persistence will be key.
It seems like you’ve done a good job gathering evidence, so keep pushing through the process, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if needed. Good luck!