Car accidents can be harrowing experiences, especially when the other party involved in the accident flees the scene. Hit and run cases, unfortunately, are not uncommon on Indian roads. If you’re left to deal with the aftermath of a hit and run, one of the first questions that might cross your mind is whether your car insurance policy covers such incidents. In this blog, we explore how various types of car insurance policies in India respond to hit and run cases, ensuring you’re well-informed about your coverage.
Understanding Car Insurance and Its Types
Car insurance in India broadly falls into two categories: third-party car insurance and comprehensive car insurance. While both offer protection, the scope and specifics of what they cover, especially in hit and run cases, differ.
Third-Party Car Insurance: Minimal Protection
In India, third-party car insurance is the most basic and legally required form of insurance. This policy only covers damages or injuries caused to a third party due to an accident involving your car. If you’re involved in a hit and run car accident where the offender flees, third-party car insurance offers little protection to you as the victim. It will not cover the repair costs for your vehicle or any medical expenses you may incur.
However, if you are the driver at fault and cause injury or damage to another party, your third-party insurance will cover the liabilities towards the other party. Keep in mind that third party car insurance prices are usually lower, reflecting their limited coverage. Unfortunately, hit and run victims need a more comprehensive policy to receive compensation in such cases.
Comprehensive Car Insurance: Enhanced Protection
A comprehensive car insurance policy provides coverage for both third-party liabilities and damages to your own vehicle. This is the type of insurance that comes to your rescue in hit and run situations. If your car is damaged or you’re injured in a hit and run motor accident, comprehensive car insurance will cover the repair costs and medical expenses, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy.
In addition to physical damages, comprehensive policies may also offer add-ons like personal accident cover, which ensures that you’re financially covered in case of severe injury or death due to a hit and run accident. Some policies also provide compensation for passengers who may be injured during the accident.
Hit and Run Insurance Claim: The Process
Filing a hit and run insurance claim can be a bit tricky, but it’s important to follow the correct steps to ensure that your claim is accepted. Here’s what you need to do:
- File an FIR: The first and most crucial step after a hit and run accident is to report the incident to the police and file an FIR. Without an official police report, your insurance claim may not be processed.
- Contact Your Insurer: Immediately notify your car insurance provider about the accident. You’ll need to provide details like the time, place, and circumstances of the accident, along with a copy of the FIR.
- Submit Necessary Documents: Along with the FIR, you may need to submit documents like your car’s registration certificate, a valid driving license, and your car insurance policy document.
- Claim Investigation: Once your claim is filed, your insurer will investigate the accident. This may involve assessing the damages to your vehicle and reviewing the police report to ensure everything is in order.
- Compensation: If the insurer is satisfied with the claim investigation, they will approve the payout. In some cases, you might need to bear a part of the repair costs as per the policy’s terms, but a significant portion will be covered by the insurer.
Hit and Run Car Accident Compensation in India
In India, the Motor Vehicles Act has provisions for compensating victims of hit and run accidents. The government offers compensation through the Solatium Fund, which provides financial relief to victims of hit and run cases when the culprit is untraceable. Currently, compensation stands at ₹50,000 for death and ₹25,000 for grievous injuries. However, this amount may not cover the full extent of medical bills or vehicle repairs, which is why having comprehensive insurance is invaluable.
Is Third-Party Insurance Enough?
While third-party car insurance is affordable and meets legal requirements, it falls short in protecting you in situations like hit and run accidents. Opting for a comprehensive policy or, at the very least, adding a personal accident cover can provide you with much-needed financial support during unexpected incidents.
Additionally, third-party car insurance prices may seem attractive for those looking to save on premium costs, but the limited protection they offer can prove costly in the long run. Paying slightly more for comprehensive coverage ensures that you, your vehicle, and any passengers are financially safeguarded.
Conclusion: Stay Protected Against the Unforeseen
Hit and run cases can be distressing, but the right car insurance policy can alleviate the financial burden. While third-party insurance is mandatory, it’s wise to invest in a comprehensive car insurance plan that covers not just third-party liabilities but also protects you and your vehicle in case of a hit and run car accident. Ensuring timely car insurance renewal and understanding the claims process will help you navigate the aftermath of such incidents more smoothly. Ultimately, safeguarding yourself with the right coverage is the best defence against the uncertainties of the road.
