Dealing With Hit and Run Damage to Your Car

It's an unhappy reality that many drivers who damage other vehicles and see the opportunity to escape without owning up will take it. A survey by Ebay Motors discovered in 2006 that drivers in Britain had spent over £5 billion in repairs for hit and run damage on their cars, with the average cost coming to around £340.

This figure is astronomical and one that could be drastically reduced if more people were aware that there are options available for the victims of these incidents. Hit and run damage can range from dents in bumpers to severe damage rendering the car unsafe for use - but it can be claimed for when you have the right insurance policy.

When your car is damaged by a hit and run driver, the incident isn't your fault. In the UK, drivers can turn to the Motor Insurers Bureau, which was founded in 1946 and is funded by all UK motor insurers. The purpose of the organisation is to provide the chance of compensation for road accident victims whose accidents were caused by uninsured, negligent and untraced drivers.

Your insurer can go through the MIB to make a claim that could result in compensation for the damage to your vehicle, as well as any personal injuries you received.

It can be difficult to feel hopeful when the cause of your car's damage has disappeared. When there's no one to blame, many people think that there's nobody to turn to - but the Motor Insurers Bureau was set up for this purpose. However, not all claims are successful, and it's important to do what you can following the accident to attempt to find some sort of identifying aspect for the other driver. For example, trying to record their registration plate, as well as getting the details of witnesses and taking photos of the scene can all go towards helping you make your claim. You should also report the incident to the police as soon as possible. Not only does this mean that you can get help from the police, who can take on the case on your behalf, but the act of making the claim is important as it acts as an assurance to the MIB that your claim is legitimate.

As the Ebay Motors survey also revealed that 50 per cent of British motorists admitted they would hit and run if they ever got into the situation, it's well worth ensuring your car insurance will do what it takes to get you back on the road.