Hit-and-Run Claim Process in New York: Step by Step

After a hit-and-run in New York, file a police report within 10 days and notify your insurer within a reasonable time (typically 30 days per your policy). Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage or collision coverage pays for repairs — UM avoids a collision surcharge on your premium. Your deductible still applies. If you cannot identify the at-fault driver, UM is typically the correct coverage.

Key Facts

• New York requires reporting a hit-and-run that causes injury or property damage exceeding $1,000 — filing even for smaller damage protects your claim
• Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) claims typically do not trigger premium surcharges — collision claims may
• The Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC) provides limited coverage for hit-and-run victims who have no applicable insurance — it is a last resort with lower limits and a more complex process
• Some policies specify 24-hour notification for UM claims — check your specific policy, not just the standard 30-day window
• Paint transfer, debris, or parts from the fleeing vehicle should be photographed and documented — they can help identify the vehicle

Hit-and-runs are frustrating precisely because the at-fault party is absent — but New York State law and most insurance policies have a clear process for handling them. Follow these steps in order.

Step 1: Document immediately at the scene

Before leaving the scene, photograph:

• All damage to your vehicle from multiple angles
• The location (street signs, landmarks, any security cameras nearby)
• Surrounding vehicles whose dashcam footage might have captured the incident
• Any paint transfer, debris, or parts from the other vehicle

If there are witnesses, collect their contact information. Their statements can support your claim.

Step 2: File a police report

In New York, you must report a hit-and-run that causes injury or property damage exceeding $1,000. Even for smaller damage, filing a police report protects your claim. The report establishes: when the incident occurred, what you reported seeing, and that you made a good-faith effort to identify the other driver.

File with:

• Rochester Police Department if within city limits
• Monroe County Sheriff's Office for county areas
• New York State Police for incidents on state routes or highways

Step 3: Notify your insurer promptly

Contact your insurance company within 30 days (check your policy for the exact requirement — some specify 24 hours for UM claims). Provide the police report number, your documentation, and witness information.

Step 4: Determine which coverage applies

Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD). If you have UMPD coverage and can identify a vehicle (even partially — a partial plate, make, or color) but not the driver, UMPD applies. UMPD claims typically do not trigger surcharges.

Collision coverage. If the other vehicle cannot be identified at all, collision coverage is often used. This triggers your collision deductible and may affect your premium history.

Which is better? UMPD preserves your premium history. Ask your insurer explicitly which coverage they are applying and whether the claim will be surcharged.

Step 5: Get repair estimates

Rochester body shops on our directory work with all major insurers on hit-and-run claims. Get at least two estimates — especially for structural damage. See how to read an auto body estimate to understand what you're approving.

For service areas outside downtown Rochester — Greece, Webster, Pittsford — the claims process is identical; choose a shop near you.

What about the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC)?

If you have no applicable insurance coverage at all, New York's MVAIC program provides limited compensation for hit-and-run victims. This is a last resort — it has lower coverage limits and a more complex claims process than a standard insurance claim. Contact the MVAIC directly if this applies to your situation.

Common questions this answers

• How do I file a hit-and-run claim in New York State?
• What coverage pays for a hit-and-run in NY?
• Do I need a police report for a hit-and-run insurance claim?
• Will a hit-and-run claim raise my insurance premium?
• What if I have no insurance and was hit by a hit-and-run driver?
• How long do I have to report a hit-and-run to my insurer in New York?
• What is MVAIC and how does it help hit-and-run victims?