Does Uninsured Motorist Cover Hit-And-Run Accidents in Iowa?

If a driver hits your vehicle and flees the scene, they are generally treated as an uninsured driver in Iowa, and uninsured motorist coverage can cover such accidents, even if you're unable to identify the at-fault driver.

However, Iowa has specific rules that affect how these claims work, including a physical-contact requirement that can impact whether your claim is approved. Not every hit-and-run automatically triggers uninsured motorist coverage, so understanding your policy matters.

Keep reading to learn what protection is available after a hit-and-run in Iowa, what steps to take, and how to give your claim the best chance of success.

Does Iowa Require Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage?

While it's not mandatory to get uninsured coverage in Iowa, all insurance providers must offer it. When you purchase an auto insurance policy, your insurer will include UM coverage unless you reject it in writing. Drivers who sign a written waiver forgo access to the benefits provided under the policy.

Does Uninsured Motorist Cover Hit-And-Run Accidents in Iowa?

Getting hit by someone without insurance can leave you financially distressed. It's even worse when they flee the accident since you can't identify the responsible party to pursue a lawsuit against them.

That said, if you have UM coverage, the policy can cover the damages caused by the at-fault driver, including bodily injury losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. After a hit-and -run accident, you may be able to pursue a UM claim against your own insurance policy. Your policy limits determine the maximum payout.

An important thing to remember is that under Iowa law, there needs to be physical contact between the vehicles for you to be eligible to file a UM claim. Tom Fowler Law can advise on questions like how does uninsured motorist coverage work?

It's worth noting that UM coverage and underinsured motorist coverage are two different types of coverage. UM kicks in when the other driver doesn't have insurance, and UIM applies when the at-fault driver has some insurance, but not enough.

What Insurance Covers Damage After a Hit-And-Run?

When the at-fault driver is gone, your insurance company becomes your first line of recovery.

There are different types of coverages that can affect the damages you can recover, including:

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage can pay for damage to your vehicle after a hit-and-run, regardless of who was at fault. You will need to meet your deductible first. After that, your insurer covers the remaining repair or replacement costs.

Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage

This coverage applies to medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by an uninsured or unidentified driver. It does not typically cover property damage.

Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay)

MedPay can help cover medical bills for you and your passengers, regardless of fault. It kicks in quickly and covers immediate treatment costs. While policy limits are usually lower than UM coverage, MedPay helps fill the gaps while your main claim is being processed.

What to Do Immediately After an Iowa Hit-And-Run Accident

The steps you take after a hit-and-run accident can make or break your case. Here's what you should do if you're involved in one:

• Call 911 to report the accident immediately.

• Wait for the police to arrive at the scene and get a copy of the police report, which is essential for the claims process.

• Take pictures of the damaged vehicle (multiple angles), nearby traffic signals or road signs, and any other evidence.

• If there are witnesses nearby, request their contact details, as witness statements can strengthen your claim.

• Report the accident to your own insurance company to initiate the process.

• Seek medical treatment immediately, even if your injuries seem minor, as symptoms might show up later, and gaps in treatment can hurt your claim.

• Contact an experienced personal injury attorney to gather additional documentation, file a claim, and handle the legal process.

Can You Sue After a Hit-And-Run Accident in Iowa?

A hit-and-run accident victim can only pursue a personal injury claim against the responsible party if they are properly identified. Their liability insurance may cover the damages caused, but if they don't have one, your option remains limited to your own UM or UIM coverage.

However, since this is a hit-and-run accident, the driver often flees the accident scene, making it hard to identify them. If you can't identify the responsible party, it can become difficult to pursue a lawsuit in court, prove damages against someone with no identity, and seek compensation. This can lead to the question of should i get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn't my fault?

Another thing injured victims need to know is that if their damages exceed their UM limits, they may be left covering the difference from their pockets.

What If the Hit-And-Run Driver Is Later Identified?

Upon accurately identifying the hit-and-run driver, your options expand. You can pursue a claim against the at-fault driver’s liability insurance, which can provide you with full compensation, including economic losses and non-economic damages.

It’s worth noting that if your insurer has covered damages against a UM claim, it can seek reimbursement from any settlement you recover. For example, if you received $20,000 through UM and later identify the hit-and-run driver and settle for $50,000, your insurer may claim back that $20,000. For more information, this auto accident law firm in Des Moines may be able to help.

How Can an Iowa Car Accident Lawyer Help Hit-And-Run Victims?

An experienced legal team knows how to protect accident victims when insurance companies push back. Here are some of the ways a personal injury lawyer can help:

Investigating the Accident

They can dig into the evidence to identify the responsible person and build a strong case.

Dealing with Your Insurance Company

They handle communications with your insurer so you don't say something that hurts your claim.

Maximizing Your Compensation

They fight to make sure accident victims recover everything they deserve, including car accident damages, such as medical expenses, lost income, and more, that insurers may try to minimize.

Meeting Legal Deadlines

They make sure your personal injury claim is filed on time, and nothing slips through the cracks.

Tom Fowler Law Is Ready to Represent Hit-And-Run Victims in Iowa!

If you were hit by a driver who fled the scene, Tom Fowler Law is here to help. We evaluate your claim, deal with insurance disputes, and fight to recover your wages and other damages. Our team serves Des Moines and the surrounding areas in Iowa.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with an experienced car accident attorney!