What to Do After a Hit-and-Run

March 27, 2025||inPersonal Insurance|auto accident, auto care, auto insurance, car accident, car insurance, collision coverage, hit and run, personal insurance

Getting into a vehicle collision is stressful enough, but it’s even more frustrating when the other driver takes off without exchanging insurance information. This type of situation is called a hit-and-run, and it can leave you feeling lost and unsure of what to do next. Whether you’re dealing with an accident where the other driver flees or if your parked vehicle gets hit, knowing the right steps to take can make a big difference. Check out these tips to help you understand what information you should gather and who to contact after a hit-and-run incident.

Car close-up
Click here to submit an inquiry to Murphy Insurance or call us at 800 222 8711

Record all pertinent information.

  • Write down as much of the other vehicle’s information as possible, including its license plate number, make and model, and color.
  • Note the time and location of the hit-and-run. Be sure to record the direction the car was headed post-incident.
  • It’s also important to take pictures of the scene and any damage to your vehicle. If there were any eyewitnesses, gather their names and contact information.
  • Locating surveillance footage from nearby businesses, traffic cameras, or your dashcam can be crucial in identifying the at-fault driver and providing details about the incident. However, it’s many businesses don’t keep footage for long unless there’s a specific reason to retain it, so act quickly to gather any recordings.

Don’t Leave the Scene

In the event of a hit-and-run, never try to follow or apprehend the fleeing driver. What’s more, leaving the scene could cause you to miss eyewitness accounts and may leave law officials questioning who’s really at fault.

Contact the police.

Once all important information has been gathered, call the police immediately to file an accident report and ideally, they can take a report at the scene. When the police arrive, provide them with a description of the vehicle, if available, what happened, and the names of any eyewitnesses.

Filing a police accident report creates an official record of the incident, which is essential for insurance claims, legal matters, and determining fault in case of a dispute. Be sure to report an accident within 5 days of an accident. While the report plays a key role in helping insurance companies assess liability, it is not the only factor they consider when determining fault.

Contact your insurance agent or company

After a hit-and-run accident, it’s important to contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible. They can guide you through the next steps, help you understand your coverage, and ensure you file the necessary claims. Providing your agent and company with all the details of the accident, including the police report and any evidence you’ve gathered, will help them assess the situation and get to work on providing you with compensation.

If you have any questions or concerns about how your insurance policy will protect you in a hit and run situation, contact your agent for assistance.

Read Other Blog Posts

Be Ready for Severe Winter Weather Snowstorms, Ice, and Extreme Cold

Be Ready for Severe Winter Weather: Snowstorms, Ice, and Extreme Cold

Severe winter storms can bring heavy snow, ice, and extreme cold. Learn how to prepare your home, protect your vehicle, prevent frozen pipes and power outages, and take practical steps to keep your family safe during harsh winter weather.
Read more
Chimney

Chimney Maintenance Is Essential

A well-maintained chimney is essential for keeping your home safe, as neglected chimneys are a leading cause of fireplace-related fires and carbon monoxide issues. With an estimated 20,000 chimney fires occurring each year in the U.S., routine inspections and cleanings play a critical role in reducing creosote buildup and preventing costly damage. By making chimney care part of your annual home-maintenance plan, you’ll protect your property and ensure your fireplace operates safely all season long.
Read more
Woman buying a car

Shopping for a Safe Vehicle

When shopping for a new vehicle, safety should be a top consideration. This brief guide outlines key safety features—from crash protection to advanced driver assistance systems—and explains how they can impact your insurance costs. Understanding these factors can help you make a smarter, more informed purchase.
Read more
Operating Under the Influence (OUI) Will Cost You Money

Operating Under the Influence (OUI) Will Cost You Money

An Operating Under the Influence (OUI) conviction is more than a legal problem; it’s a financial disaster. Between fines, court fees, license costs, higher insurance premiums, towing, and lost wages, one mistake can cost you between $11,000 and $30,000. The best way to save? Don’t drink and drive.
Read more
Fresh Look at Personal Insurance SMM

A New Year, A Fresh Look at Your Protection

A new year is the perfect time to review your insurance and personal risk management. Life changes, rising costs, and growing responsibilities can all affect your coverage needs. A quick annual check can help ensure that you and what matters most are properly protected.
Read more
Car side-view

How Deductibles Affect Auto Insurance Premiums

Learn how your auto insurance deductible impacts both your premium and your protection. Choosing the right deductible can help you balance monthly costs with what you would pay out of pocket if an accident or covered claim occurs, giving you better control over your coverage and budget.
Read more
Murphy Insurance Agency Supporting Local Charities Through Employee Generosity

Murphy Insurance Agency Supporting Local Charities Through Teamwork

Murphy Insurance proudly supports local charities making a meaningful impact across our communities. Through agency contributions, employee generosity, volunteer efforts, and seasonal drives, we help provide comfort, care, and essential resources to families in need.
Read more
Dennis Blog

The Murphy Insurance Difference

As a third-generation, family-owned agency, Murphy Insurance has always believed insurance should be personal. From thoughtful guidance and access to top-rated carriers to hands-on support when it matters most, we are committed to protecting the families and businesses we serve. Built on trust since 1937, our focus remains on long-term relationships, honest advice, and helping our clients feel confident at every stage of life.
Read more
Keyhole

Make Home Security A Top Priority

Keeping your home and family safe should be one of your top priorities. Specifically, it’s important to protect your household from the risk of invasion. Fortunately, there are several things that you can do to bolster the security of your home. Consider these top security measures.
Read more
PreviousNext

Visit Our Auto Insurance Page

Auto Insurance

At Murphy Insurance, we are here to assist you in obtaining the appropriate auto insurance. Choosing the appropriate auto insurance coverage can be overwhelming. Every insurance company has its unique offerings, making it challenging to compare options effectively. That’s where we shine. We simplify the process by helping you evaluate provider and policy choices, seek out discounts, and optimize your car insurance within your budget constraints. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you and your loved ones are well-protected.