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Why was a hit and run listed as an at-fault accident on my insurance?

Why would a hit and run in a parking lot while I was at work be listed as at-fault to me? While I was inside the hospital at work, someone backed into my car which was parked in the hospital parking deck. My friend says it will be counted as an at-fault accident, why?

Feb 3, 2019 Charlotte, NC

Answer
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Ava Lynch

Insurance Analyst

Credentials
  • 7+ years of Experience in the Insurance Industry

Ava joined The Zebra as a writer and licensed insurance agent in 2016. She now works as a senior insurance contributor, providing insights and data a…

A hit-and-run can be considered at fault for a few different reasons. First, you must have uninsured motorist property damage coverage for the accident to be listed as not at fault. If your collision coverage pays for the damages, then it is listed as an at-fault accident. Lastly, if you have uninsured property damage, you will need to provide a police report for the claim to be processed. Whether you file a claim is up to you. If you can afford to pay for the damages out of pocket, you will avoid your insurance rates being impacted because you filed a claim. At-fault accidents can impact your rate for up to five years. Not-at-fault accidents can impact your rates for up to three years. Check out our claims calculator and guide to filing claims to learn more about when to file a claim and what to expect from the process. Good luck and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.

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