The term Hit and Run is used when one car collides with another car and the driver leaves the scene of the accident without stopping to give assistance or provide any information on how the accident happened. The same term is also used if the driver hit an object or pedestrian without stopping. Many people have had the unfortunate incident of someone hitting their stationary car in a parking garage or elsewhere without having the decency to leave their contact details. In South Africa where we have a huge percentage of drivers without car insurance the incidence of Hit and Run has also increased.

Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offence. We have a legal and moral duty to stop at an accident scene and provide assistance. Take photos with your cell phone if you can. What do you do when you are at the receiving end of a hit and run? First – if at all possible – try to memorize the details of the car (if the accident happens while you are present.) Secondly, report this to the police as soon as possible, giving as much detail as you can remember. Thirdly, advise your own Insurance Company of the accident, giving all the details, including the police case number. Hopefully you have comprehensive insurance that will cover hit and run accident damage. Most insurance companies’ policies do not use the actual wording “hit and run” but all comprehensive insurance contracts will provide cover whether you or someone else was the guilty driver.