Automobile

Automobile accident

You park your car and run into the store to pick something up. There's a nasty surprise when you return to your car. The right side of your car is badly damaged… and whoever did it left no note.

You will be compensated if you purchased coverage under Section B of your policy. The insurer will deduct the amount of the policy deductible from the compensation. A number of insurers offer no deductible coverage for hit and runs. Check it out!

Amount to repair your car $1,500
Policy deductible chosen $200
Total amount paid by your insurer $1,300

Steps to take

Discover the five-step process in case of a hit and run. Your insurer will indemnify you within 60 days following receipt of your request and the supporting documents. For a speedy claims settlement, make sure you have all the relevant documents handy.

Payment

Garage recommended by your insurer

You don't have to handle the payment. Your insurer will issue the cheque directly to the garage.

Your garage

Your insurer will issue a cheque in your name and that of the garage. You must endorse it and remit it to the garage once you're satisfied the repairs have been made.

Short-term rental of a vehicle (Endorsement 20).

This coverage allows you to rent a vehicle for a specified period of time, should you lose the use of your vehicle following an accident.

Rundown of a settlement process in a hit and run

Settlement process in a hit and run

Police report release Contact your insurer Appraise the damage Agree on a settlement Indemnity payment

Contact the police as soon as possible. They will fill in and give you the number of the report.

Call your insurer or broker as soon as possible. Send him a copy of the police report number.

Your insurer will examine your vehicle to appraise the damage and establish the cost of repairs. He may suggest a garage for the repairs. You may also choose your own.

Your insurer will repair your car according to the terms and conditions under your policy.

Depending on the agreement, your insurer may indemnify you or reimburse the garage directly.