What if I was injured in a hit-and-run?
Hit-and-Run accidents in Minnesota and how uninsured motorist claims really work.
Being injured in a hit-and-run accident is frightening and overwhelming. When the other driver leaves the scene, you are left with medical bills, missed work, and uncertainty about who will pay. Fortunately, Minnesota law provides paths to compensation—even when the driver is never found.
Here is what you need to know.
First Steps After a Hit-and-Run
Your health comes first. Seek medical care immediately and call law enforcement. A police report creates an official record and may help identify the fleeing driver.
If you are able, gather and preserve evidence at the scene:
- Photos of vehicle damage and surroundings
- Time, date, and location of the crash
- Descriptions of the other vehicle
- Witness names and contact information
It is also important to identify any potential source of dashcam or surveillance footage. Even small details can later make a major difference.
Using Your Own Insurance: No-Fault and UM Coverage
Minnesota is a no-fault state. After a hit-and-run, you turn first to your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, which are available regardless of fault. If your injuries are serious—exceeding the compensation limits of your PIP benefits—your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage kicks in. This is because when a driver flees and cannot be identified, the law generally treats them as uninsured.
Why Your Own Insurer May Fight Your Claim
Many people are surprised to learn that their own insurance company may strongly contest coverage in a hit-and-run claim. Once you file a UM claim, your insurance company effectively takes the place of the missing driver. Legally, they are allowed to dispute fault, causation, and damages, just like the other driver’s insurance would do. But in addition, your insurance company may also argue that the crash was a single-car accident rather than a hit-and-run.
UM claims are fought hard for several reasons:
- Your insurer pays out of its own pocket
- There is usually no other company to share the cost
- Hit-and-run claims carry higher fraud risk
- Adjusters are evaluated on payout control
- UM claims are governed by contract law
Because of this structure, even valid claims often face resistance.
Do I Need a Lawyer?
Hit-and-run UM claims are often more complex than standard accidents. Many are resolved through arbitration, where technical rules and documentation matter greatly, and you can expect your insurer to examine your claim closely and, in many cases, challenge liability. An experienced lawyer will gather and preserve evidence, handle insurer communications, aggressively challenge improper denials. This will make a significant difference in the outcome.
Having an attorney with expertise in uninsured motorist cases can be crucial in getting the compensation you deserve. If you are interested in a free, comprehensive case review, call Sieben & Cotter at 651-455-1555 to arrange your consultation, or send a request for more information.