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Being injured by a driver who flees the scene adds insult to injury. Hit-and-run crashes leave victims hurt, frightened, and unsure how they will be compensated. The good news is that Nevada law and your own insurance often provide a path to recovery even when the at-fault driver is never found.
Immediate Steps After a Hit-and-Run
Call 911 and report the crash right away. Write down or photograph anything you can about the fleeing vehicle — make, color, partial plate, direction of travel. Seek witnesses and medical care promptly. A police report is especially important when the other driver is unknown.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage Steps In
Because a hit-and-run driver is, for claim purposes, effectively uninsured, your own uninsured motorist coverage typically becomes your primary source of recovery. This is one of the most valuable protections in a Nevada auto policy, designed for exactly this situation.
When the Driver Is Identified
Sometimes police or investigators track down the fleeing driver, opening a direct claim against them. Fleeing the scene can also support a punitive-damages argument, since it reflects conscious disregard for the people left behind.
Protecting Your Hit-and-Run Claim
Insurers sometimes scrutinize UM claims closely, so documenting the crash and your injuries thoroughly matters. A free review can help you navigate a hit-and-run claim and make full use of the coverage you have already paid for.