The last thing you expect to happen on a New Mexico road is for a vehicle to hit you and flee. You may be left injured and dealing with property damage. This is what to know about these types of accidents and when your auto insurance covers them.
Understanding hit-and-run accidents
Hit-and-runs are car accidents where a driver flees the scene. In any collision, all drivers must stop and exchange all necessary information. They are also obligated to assist anyone who is injured and secure assistance by calling 911. If they fail to do any of this and deliberately flee the scene of the accident, they can later be located and charged with hit-and-run, which is a felony if anyone was injured or killed.
Hit-and-run accidents and your auto insurance
If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, your auto insurance policy may cover the costs of your out-of-pocket expenses. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is in place to protect you if you’re in an accident with a driver who has no insurance or doesn’t carry enough coverage. However, it also kicks in after a hit-and-run and can pay for your medical expenses and damage to your vehicle.
Collision coverage allows you to get vehicle repairs even if you’re at fault for an accident. It also applies if you’re the victim of a hit-and-run; however, it carries a deductible, so you’re responsible for paying that even if you’re not at fault. If the hit-and-run driver is later found, you might be able to recover these costs from their coverage.
Medical payments coverage can pay for your medical bills and ongoing medical treatment if you’re injured after a hit-and-run. It covers around $10,000 or less, so if your medical expenses go beyond that amount, you have to pay the rest out of pocket.
