Indiana law requires a driver involved in a crash to stop immediately at the scene or as close as possible without blocking traffic. Drivers also have duties to provide information and assist injured people when required. If the other driver flees, you still need to focus on safety, reporting and documentation.
Stay safe and report the crash
After a hit-and-run, move to a safe location if traffic creates a danger. Avoid chasing the fleeing driver. A pursuit can put you and others at greater risk.
Contact local law enforcement as soon as possible, especially if anyone is hurt, traffic is blocked or the other driver cannot be identified. A police report can help document the crash and may support your insurance claim.
Get medical care even if symptoms seem minor
Seek medical care immediately. Even minor symptoms can escalate, and a medical record is essential to connect your injuries directly to the crash for insurance purposes.
Preserve details before they disappear
If you can do so safely, write down or photograph details that may help identify the other driver. Try to collect:
- The make, model and color of the fleeing vehicle
- A partial or full license plate number
- The direction the driver traveled
- Contact information from witnesses
- Photos of vehicle damage, debris, skid marks and the crash scene
Nearby businesses, homes or traffic cameras may also have footage. Acting quickly may help preserve video before someone erases or overwrites it.
Review uninsured motorist coverage
Indiana auto policies typically include uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage unless the insured rejects it in writing. If your policy includes uninsured motorist coverage, it may help with injury-related losses after a hit-and-run, subject to your policy terms and limits.
Property damage can involve different rules. State law requires insurers to offer uninsured motorist property damage coverage, but hit-and-run property damage claims may depend on whether the other driver can be identified and what your policy requires. Review your policy and report the crash promptly.
Watch Indiana’s filing deadline
State law typically gives injured people two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing the deadline can make it much harder, or impossible, to bring a claim in court.
A hit-and-run can complicate a crash claim, especially when the other driver remains unknown. If you are unsure what your policy covers or how to protect a possible claim, consider speaking with a legal professional about your situation.
