Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers | June 30, 2025 | Car Accident
Getting into a car accident is stressful enough, but when the other driver takes off without stopping, it becomes even more overwhelming. Hit-and-run accidents in Maryland can leave you wondering who will pay for the damage and whether your car insurance rates will increase. This article explains how hit-and-run accidents affect your car insurance in Maryland, what steps to take if you’re a victim, and how to protect your rights.
What Is a Hit-and-Run in Maryland?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a crash leaves the scene without stopping to provide their information or help anyone injured. In Maryland, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, especially if someone is hurt or killed.
Whether you’re in a minor fender bender or a serious crash, all drivers are legally required to stop and exchange insurance and contact information. Failing to do so can result in criminal charges, license suspension, and fines for the at-fault driver.
Will Your Insurance Rates Go Up After a Hit-and-Run?
One of the most common questions victims have is whether their car insurance will go up after a hit-and-run. The answer depends on a few key factors:
Who’s at Fault?
If the hit-and-run wasn’t your fault—and your insurance company agrees—then your premium may not increase. Insurance companies usually don’t raise your rates if you weren’t responsible.
Your Coverage Type
In Maryland, your car insurance policy must include Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This type of coverage helps pay for injuries and property damage if the at-fault driver can’t be identified or has no insurance. If you use your UM coverage, your rates may stay the same, especially if the insurer confirms you weren’t at fault. However, if you file a claim under collision coverage instead, your rates are more likely to go up, depending on your insurer’s policies.
Your Insurance History
If you’ve filed claims in the past or have a record of accidents, your insurance company might raise your rates—even if the hit-and-run wasn’t your fault. They may see you as a higher risk overall. In general, using UM coverage for a hit-and-run should not impact your premium as long as fault isn’t attributed to you. Still, it’s important to confirm this with your insurance provider.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
After a hit-and-run accident, your actions matter. Taking the right steps can help you file a strong claim and avoid issues with your insurance company.
Call the Police
Always report the hit-and-run to law enforcement right away. A police report is crucial for your insurance claim and may help authorities find the driver.
Document Everything
Take photos of your car, the damage, the scene, and any other important details. Write down the time and place of the crash, what you remember about the other vehicle, and the direction it drove off.
Look for Witnesses
If anyone saw the crash, get their contact information. Witness statements can support your case and may help identify the other driver.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Let your insurance provider know about the accident as soon as possible. They’ll walk you through the process of filing a claim and using your coverage.
These steps help prove you weren’t at fault and make it easier to protect your insurance rate.
Contact Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With a Maryland Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer
A hit-and-run accident in Maryland can be a frustrating and stressful experience. The good news is that if you weren’t at fault and you use your uninsured motorist coverage, your car insurance rates may not increase.
It’s important to know your rights, act quickly, and document everything to protect your insurance and your health. If you’re injured in a hit-and-run, contacting an experienced personal injury attorney can make all the difference in getting the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Car Accident Lawyers at Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers in Maryland for Help Today
For more information, please contact Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a confidential consultation with a car accident lawyer. Our team is available to assist clients in Lanham, Frederick, Rockville, Waldorf, Annapolis, and Lexington Park, Maryland.
We proudly serve Charles County, Prince George County its surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:
Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers – Waldorf Office
8 Post Office Rd Waldorf, MD 20602
(301) 932-9997
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers – Lanham Office
4600 Forbes Blvd Ste #200 Lanham, MD 20706
(301) 936-0011
Available 24/7