{"id":10379,"date":"2024-08-26T13:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-08-26T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/?p=10379"},"modified":"2024-08-27T01:58:45","modified_gmt":"2024-08-27T01:58:45","slug":"how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Navigate Insurance Claims After a Hit-and-Run in Georgia\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Dealing with a hit-and-run can feel overwhelming. One moment, you\u2019re driving peacefully; the next, you\u2019re facing the chaos of an accident where the other driver has fled. If this happens to you in Georgia, follow these steps to handle what to do after a hit-and-run, including how to deal with your <a href=\"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/auto\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">auto insurance<\/a> company, and understand what coverage can protect you.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Navigating the Chaos of a Hit-and-Run in Georgia<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Most people \u2014 and most likely you as well \u2014 aren\u2019t exactly feeling too great and just don\u2019t know what to do after a hit-and-run. If you\u2019ve found yourself in this situation, the first step is to take a deep breath and stay calm and collected. Here are some of the steps you should take immediately after the fact, including how to file an insurance claim after a hit-and-run accident.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Immediate Aftermath: Steps to Take Right Away<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>What to do after a hit-and-run? Stay calm and follow these steps immediately:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Check for Injuries<\/strong>: Ensure you and your passengers are okay. Call 911 if anyone needs medical attention.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stay at the Scene<\/strong>: Don\u2019t chase the other driver. Park safely and remain at the scene.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gather Information<\/strong>: Note details about the other car, like make, model, color, and license plate. Snap photos of the damage and the scene.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Call the Police<\/strong>: Report the incident. A police report is crucial for your insurance claim.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Look for Witnesses<\/strong>: If anyone saw the accident, get their contact details. Their statements can support your claim.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Georgia\u2019s Legal Stance on Hit-and-Runs<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Georgia takes hit-and-runs seriously. Offenders face heavy fines and possible jail time. Reporting the incident helps enforce these laws and supports your insurance claim.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Georgia\u2019s hit-and-run accident laws aim to deter drivers from fleeing the scene. Under Georgia law, drivers involved in an accident must stop, provide their information, and help any injured parties. Failing to do so can result in criminal charges, including fines and imprisonment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For victims, the police report serves as an essential document for filing an insurance claim and can also aid in legal proceedings if the perpetrator is caught.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Building Your Case for an Insurance Claim<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Like any good legal case, you need evidence \u2014 real, tangible evidence. And, of course, a paper trail. Here\u2019s the scoop.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gathering Bulletproof Evidence<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To strengthen your claim, gather as much evidence as possible:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Police Report<\/strong>: Obtain a copy of this vital document.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Photos and Videos<\/strong>: Capture visual evidence of the scene and your car\u2019s damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Witness Statements<\/strong>: Collect written or recorded statements from any witnesses.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Understanding Your Coverage: Pitfalls and Protections<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Know what your policy covers. <a href=\"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/understanding-the-6-main-types-of-auto-insurance-coverage\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Key types of auto coverage<\/a> that protect you in a hit-and-run include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Uninsured Motorist Coverage<\/strong>: Covers your expenses if the other driver is unidentified or uninsured.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Collision Coverage<\/strong>: Pays for repairs to your car, regardless of fault.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is especially important in hit-and-run cases. This type of coverage can compensate you for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages if the at-fault driver cannot be identified or does not have insurance. UM is typically inexpensive, making it well worth the few additional dollars a month on your premium.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Collision coverage, on the other hand, helps pay for repairs to your vehicle, ensuring you\u2019re not out of pocket for damages caused by the accident.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22.avif 1000w,https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-300x200.avif 300w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-768x512.jpg 768w,https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-720x480.avif 720w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-240x160.jpg 240w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-480x320.jpg 480w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-180x120.jpg 180w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-210x140.jpg 210w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22.webp 1000w,https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-768x512.jpg 768w,https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-720x480.webp 720w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-240x160.jpg 240w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-480x320.jpg 480w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-180x120.jpg 180w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-210x140.jpg 210w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img src=\"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22.jpg\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-240x160.jpg 240w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-480x320.jpg 480w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-180x120.jpg 180w, https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Velox-how-to-navigate-insurance-claims-after-a-hit-and-run-in-georgia-22-210x140.jpg 210w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"wp-image-10388 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Man when realized his car got crashed by a hit-and-run car\"decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\"  > <\/picture><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Deadlines and Legal Nuances in Georgia<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Of course, every state has its own statutes of limitations when it comes to certain types of property damage crimes. Georgia is no exception to the rule. Here\u2019s how to file an insurance claim after a hit-and-run.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Statute of Limitations: Timing Is Everything<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In Georgia, you have limited time to file an insurance claim or lawsuit after a hit-and-run. File a personal injury claim within two years and a property damage claim within four years of the accident. Act quickly to protect your rights.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The statute of limitations ensures that claims are filed within a reasonable time frame, preserving evidence and witness testimonies. Failing to file within these time limits can result in losing your right to compensation. It\u2019s crucial to start the claims process as soon as possible to avoid missing these critical deadlines.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When Lawsuits Become Necessary: Exploring Legal Action<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you identify the hit-and-run driver and need to sue for damages, consult a lawyer who specializes in <a href=\"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/car-accident-in-georgia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">what to do about car accidents in Georgia<\/a>. Legal action might be necessary if the insurance settlement doesn\u2019t cover all your expenses or if the driver at fault is found and you need to seek additional damages. An experienced attorney can help navigate the complexities of the legal system, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your losses.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Financial Recovery Post Hit-and-Run<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The question that\u2019s usually top of mind for anyone who has been through one of these incidents is this: How much money can I recover for my case?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Calculating Damages: How Much Can You Recover?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The amount you can recover will depend on your damages and insurance policy. This includes medical bills, car repairs, and other related expenses.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Calculating damages involves considering both economic and non-economic losses. Economic damages include tangible expenses like medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Accurately documenting all your losses will help maximize your claim.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Managing Claims for Uninsured Motorists<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Because <a href=\"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/is-georgia-an-at-fault-state-car-accident\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Georgia is an at-fault state<\/a>, uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can be a lifesaver in hit-and-run situations. It steps in when the at-fault driver doesn\u2019t have insurance or when the driver cannot be identified. This coverage can pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs, providing a financial cushion during a difficult time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Protect Yourself in the Case of a Hit-and-Run<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Having the right insurance coverage makes all the difference in a Georgia hit-and-run accident. For affordable and reliable auto insurance in Georgia, check out Velox Insurance. With the right steps and coverage, you can protect yourself and get back on the road with confidence. We\u2019re here to help make that happen!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To get started with your own customized policy, give us a call today at <a href=\"tel:8554683569\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">(855) 468-3569<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/auto\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">request a quote online<\/a>, or visit <a href=\"https:\/\/locations.veloxinsurance.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">your local Velox office<\/a> in your neck of the woods in Georgia to speak with our friendly agents.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>FAQs: Hit-and-Run Claims<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Some of the most common questions around these types of cases in Georgia include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Will My Insurance Rates Increase After a Hit-And-Run Claim in Georgia?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your premiums might increase after filing a hit-and-run claim, but this varies by insurer and your policy terms. It\u2019s worth checking your policy details or speaking with your agent.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What if the Driver Responsible for the Hit-And-Run Is Never Found?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If authorities can\u2019t locate the driver, rely on your UM or collision coverage to pay for damages. This highlights the importance of having the right coverage \u2014 it protects you in situations where the other driver can\u2019t be held accountable.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What if the Hit-And-Run Driver Is Identified After the Insurance Claim?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If the hit-and-run driver is eventually identified, your insurance company may subrogate the claim, meaning they\u2019ll seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver\u2019s insurance. This can potentially recover the costs paid out for your claim and, in some cases, might even result in a refund of your deductible.&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dealing with a hit-and-run can feel overwhelming. One moment, you\u2019re driving peacefully; the next, you\u2019re facing the chaos of an accident where the other driver has fled. If this happens to you in Georgia, follow these steps to handle what to do after a hit-and-run, including how to deal with your auto insurance company, and [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":10384,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10379"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10379"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10379\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10390,"href":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10379\/revisions\/10390"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10384"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10379"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10379"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10379"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}