Every car owner fears getting involved in an accident or damaging their car. Today, we are going to talk about one such event, i.e., a hit-and-run. Here, a car owner hits another vehicle, a pedestrian, or property, then flees the scene without taking responsibility. We are sorry to say that such cases remain fairly common, leaving victims frustrated by the repair and/or medical bills.
However, there’s a tool that can help you destress, i.e., car insurance. Did you know that with the right coverage, your worries will vanish in no time? In this article, we have discussed car insurance policies and hit-and-run accidents, helping you be better prepared to handle such unfortunate events.
So, let’s get started…
Hit-and-run accidents in the Philippines
What is a hit-and-run accident? Under the law, a hit-and-run is a case in which the offender leaves the scene of an accident without stopping to offer assistance. It is considered a criminal offence and may lead to a fine, imprisonment, and even the suspension of a license.
Reason why hit-and-run cases are on the rise in the country -
- Insufficient awareness
- Lack of road discipline
- Lack of CCTV systems
- Heavy traffic and road congestion
Also Read: Top car insurance worries Filipino drivers face - and how to fix them
Types of coverage offered by car insurance policies
Compulsory Third-Party Liability (CTPL) coverage
Vehicle registration is mandatory in the country, and it requires CTPL insurance. It covers only third-party injuries and/or death.
Comprehensive Insurance
It covers a wide range of risks, including accidents, theft, fire, flood, and hit-and-run damage. It protects the insured car and its owner.
Personal Accident Coverage
It provides coverage for the driver and passengers in the event of an accident resulting in injuries or death.
Photo from FreepikCar insurance & hit-and-run cases
Ever wondered how car insurance helps you in case of a hit-and-run tragedy? While CTPL insurance will not be of any help, comprehensive insurance will help you manage financial stress better. You see, CTPL insurance has certain limitations in hit-and-run cases, as it does not cover damage to your own car or property. It only applies if someone else is injured or killed due to your vehicle and negligence.
Therefore, if you want to receive compensation for vehicle repair or replacements, comprehensive insurance is a must. Here’s what the plan will cover -
- Bodily injuries and medical reimbursements, including hospital expenses for you and your passengers.
- Pays for vehicle damage in case the culprit remains unidentified. Comprehensive insurance will process such claims under ‘unidentified vehicle’ provisions.
How to file a hit-and-run case: A step-by-step guide
Step 1: Report the incident to the authorities
After ensuring everyone's safety, contact the local authorities and obtain a police report—it is an essential requirement for filing a claim in such cases.
Step 2: Notify the insurance provider asap
Next, contact your insurance provider without delay, as early reporting enhances the credibility of your claim.
Step 3: Prepare & submit the required documents
Make sure to ask your insurance provider for all required documents to submit with the duly accomplished claim form. Gather all the required documents and submit them all without fail.
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List of required documents includes -
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Step 4: Inspection and claim assessment
The insurance provider assigns an adjuster to inspect the vehicle and estimate the repair cost. Make sure to cooperate with them thoroughly and don’t provide any false information.
Step 5: Claim settlement
If everything is okay, your claim will be approved, and the insurer will cover the repair cost.
Also Read: Filing a car insurance claim: Key coverage you’ll need after an accident
Common reasons for the denial of hit-and-run claims
Photo from Freepik- Late reporting of the incident
- Missing or incomplete documentation
- Not cooperating with the adjuster
- Providing false information
- No comprehensive insurance plan is included in the policy
What to do after a hit-and-run accident?
If your car ever suffers a hit-and-run case, here are a few actions you must take immediately -
- Stay calm and document everything—take pictures and collect statements from witnesses.
- Prioritise safety, don’t chase the offender
- Notify the police and your insurance provider asap
- If you have a dashcam, check the video for evidence
How to prevent hit-and-run incidents?
Getting your car hit by someone who didn’t even have the courtesy to apologise or offer help truly hurts. Here are some tips to prevent a hit-and-run case altogether -
- Park your car in a safe zone that is well-lit and preferably secured
- Practice defensive driving
- Obey traffic rules
Also Read: Top 8 defensive driving tips for Filipino drivers to stay safe and save on insurance
Top car insurance providers in the Philippines
When choosing a car insurance provider in the Philippines, it is essential to ensure the provider offers all necessary coverage, including hit-and-run coverage. Here are a few well-known and reputed providers in the country -
- AXA Philippines
- MAPFRE Insurance
- Malayan Insurance
- Standard Insurance
Remember, don’t rely solely on premium when selecting a car insurance provider; look for attributes like 24/7 customer support, roadside assistance, fast claim approval, and numerous partner repair shops.
Bottom line
Accidents are bad, and when it’s a hit-and-run case, things get worse as it is unpredictable, costly, and frustrating to be clueless about the offender. However, with the right car insurance coverage, you can get optimal protection for yourself, your passengers, and your vehicle. Here, it is essential to understand that CTPL insurance alone is not enough; investing in a comprehensive plan is a must to obtain more extensive coverage, including for hit-and-run incidents. In addition, a policyholder must know about the claim process and documentation requirements. All this will keep you safe and away from any financial stress.
Also Read: The rights of a car insurance policyholder in the Philippines
FAQs
Q1. Does CTPL insurance cover hit-and-run cases in the Philippines?
Ans. No. CTPL insurance only covers third-party injury or death in case of an accident involving the insured vehicle. It does not cover your own vehicle damage.
Q2. How long should one wait before reporting a hit-and-run case?
Ans. Do not wait, report the incident as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours.
Q3. Can I file a claim if the car that hit me is unidentified?
Ans. Yes, an insurance company allows a policyholder to file a comprehensive insurance claim under the ‘unidentifiable vehicle’ clause.
Q4. Will my no-claim bonus be affected after filing a hit-and-run claim?
Ans. Yes, filing a claim will deprive you of the no-claim bonus discount.
Q5. Will not having a police report affect my claim?
Ans. Yes, a police report is a must in cases of theft and accidents. It serves as proof of the incident and related details, thereby helping the adjuster/provider tally the details.
Q6. Do insurance companies accept dashcam evidence?
Ans. Yes, most insurance providers in the Philippines accept dash cam footage as evidence.
Q7. What will be my deductible in case of a hit-and-run case?
Ans. The deductible is usually set at the time the policy is finalised and is typically a percentage of the vehicle’s fair market value.
Q8. What if the car owner responsible for the hit-and-run case is identified?
Ans. You can inform the police and your insurance provider, and legal actions can be taken against the offender.
Q9. Is a comprehensive insurance plan useful in hit-and-run cases?
Ans. Yes, comprehensive insurance is your best defence against unexpected accidents and financial losses.
Q10. My car was hit while it was parked. Can I file a claim?
Ans. Yes, of course, provided you have comprehensive coverage and proper documentation.
Also Read: Should you get car insurance from your bank, dealer, or a broker? Here’s the answer!
