Last Updated September 19, 2026
Short answer
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver leaves the scene after a collision. Uninsured motorist coverage may provide a source of recovery depending on the policy, applicable state law, and any valid coverage rejection or selection. Reporting the crash and giving the insurer required notice may also be important.
If the other driver leaves the scene, report the crash to law enforcement and preserve any information that may help identify the vehicle or driver. Your own automobile insurance may also become important, including potential uninsured motorist coverage.
How UM Coverage May Apply
Uninsured motorist coverage is first-party insurance under your own policy, but its availability and requirements are governed by the policy and applicable state law. Hit-and-run or unidentified-vehicle claims may involve reporting, notice, and proof requirements that should be reviewed promptly.
If the Driver Is Identified Later
If law enforcement, witnesses, video, or other evidence later identifies the driver, a liability claim may become available and the UM coverage analysis may change. Provide any new information to your attorney and insurer promptly. See dealing with insurance.
How a claim often moves
- 1
Report the crash to the police if that has not happened.
- 2
Tell your insurer what the policy requires. Ask about UM.
- 3
Get medical care and keep the records.
- 4
Speak with an attorney before you guess whether “no other driver” means no claim.
How Brock & Stout can help
We can review the applicable automobile policies, evaluate potential UM coverage, help address notice requirements, and investigate available evidence that may identify the other driver. Call or request a free consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Personal injury claims are subject to filing deadlines, and the deadline that applies can depend on the facts of the case. Different notice requirements may apply depending on who is involved. Do not use this website to calculate a filing deadline. Speak with an attorney promptly.
Related resources
- Car Accident Injury Claims — Car Accident Injury Claims
If another driver’s negligence caused a crash, you may have a claim against that driver and available insurance. Your own policy can also matter, including uninsured motorist coverage. This page does not calculate a filing deadline or a settlement value.
- Dealing With Insurance After an Injury — Dealing With Insurance After an Injury
You usually must cooperate with your own insurer. The other company’s adjuster does not work for you. Recorded statements, medical authorizations, and early settlement offers can affect the claim. Get advice before you guess about fault or future medical care.
- Pedestrian Accidents — Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian crashes can occur in crosswalks, intersections, parking areas, roadsides, and other locations where vehicles and people on foot cross paths. Fault depends on the circumstances, including right of way, traffic signals, visibility, driver conduct, pedestrian conduct, and applicable state law.
- Uninsured and Underinsured Motorists — Uninsured and Underinsured Motorists
UM/UIM coverage may apply when an at-fault driver has no insurance, insufficient insurance, or in certain hit-and-run situations. Whether coverage is available depends on the policy, any valid rejection or coverage selection, and applicable state law. Prompt notice to the insurer may also be important.
Injured and not sure what to do next?
Call now or request a free case evaluation. We can review what happened and explain options. We cannot promise a particular result.
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This page is general educational information about personal injury claims as of the date shown. It is not legal advice, does not create an attorney-client relationship, and does not guarantee a result. Facts, insurance coverage, and state law vary. Do not use this website to calculate a filing deadline. Personal Injury Knowledge Center
