Summary: A hit-and-run accident shouldn’t cause you to have an increase in your auto insurance premium if you aren’t at fault. With that said, some circumstances and carriers may also cause you to pay a higher premium. There are laws in Texas to help mitigate hit-and-runs, however, this doesn’t mean they aren’t a common issue for drivers. You can protect yourself with uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage and if you are facing a premium increase due to a hit-and-run, shopping carriers can help you switch and save money. Estimated Read Time: 2 mins

How Hit-And-Run Claims Affect Your Auto Insurance

In case of a hit-and-run accident, having appropriate insurance coverage is vital. While Texas law mandates liability insurance, this coverage doesn’t protect vehicle repairs in hit-and-run incidents.

To address this, you’ll need collision coverage or uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) property damage coverage, which usually includes hit-and-run damage. UM/UIM coverage often features lower deductibles and may offer rental car reimbursement.

If you don’t have these coverages, consider discussing options with your insurance agent to enhance your protection.

However, if you do need to file a claim due to a hit-and-run, it’s important to understand how your policy and premium are affected. Below, we’re breaking down how drivers in Texas are affected.

Does a Hit and Run Increase Your Insurance?

If you are a victim of a hit-and-run accident, you won’t likely see an increase in your auto insurance premium. However, different carriers may assess risk differently and could raise your rates as a result.

Furthermore, if you decide to file a claim with your collision coverage because the party responsible is never found, you may find yourself paying more in premiums as a result.

It’s important to shop around and read the details of your individual car insurance policy to understand what to expect from your insurer after a hit-and-run.

Hit and Run Accident Laws in Texas

Drivers in Texas have a legal obligation to stop, assist, and exchange contact and insurance information after an accident, even if it involves an unattended vehicle. Failure to do so constitutes a hit-and-run offense.

Despite stringent laws, hit-and-run incidents are on the rise nationwide, including in Texas.

Penalties for hit-and-run accidents vary based on the severity of the damage. Accidents resulting in death or serious injuries carry felony charges, while those resulting in less severe injuries or vehicle damage incur misdemeanor charges.

Texas law mandates providing specific information after an accident, including name, address, vehicle details, and insurance information.

Insurance claims can be made against the liable party’s insurance, but if they’re not found or uninsured, UM/UIM motorist coverage applies.

Hit-and-run offenders may face additional charges such as DWI or driving without insurance, exacerbating legal consequences, depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident.

What Should I Do if a Hit and Run Accident Increases My Insurance?

If your auto carrier is looking to apply a hit-and-run insurance increase, you’ll need to shop around to find lower rates.

There are many different factors and methods that go into calculating your premium and you may be able to find a carrier near you offering the same auto insurance for less.

Your best bet is to shop around and compare rates from top-rated car insurance providers in Texas.

Shopping and comparing is key to saving money whether you’re facing an increase from a hit-and-run accident or not. If you’d like to see how much you can save, contact our team and compare quotes in your area today.

Sources:

1. Uninsured Motorist Subrogation: Pursuing The Uninsured At-Fault Driver, MWL. Accessed April 2024. https://www.mwl-law.com/uninsured-motorist-subrogation-pursuing-the-uninsured-at-fault-driver/

2. Texas Hit and Run Laws, Law Office of E. Jason Leach. Accessed April 2024.
https://www.ejasonleach.com/hit-and-run-laws-in-texas