Hit & Run Accidents
Personal Injury Claims / Hit & Run Accidents
Hit & Run Accidents – What You Need to Know
Sometimes, after a collision, the at-fault party does not stop to exchange information. When the owner and/or driver of the other vehicle involved in the accident leaves the scene, there is a risk that they may never be identified. In these circumstances, you may be required to claim benefits pursuant to the section 24 (“Hit & Run”) of the Insurance (Vehicle) Act. This legislation provides insurance coverage to individuals who are injured by drivers who cannot be identified.
However, there are a few things you need to know when it comes to these provisions.
- Section 24 requires that you provide ICBC with written notice that the claim may involve an unidentified driver/owner. This notice must be given promptly and in any event not later than 6 months following the accident.
- Section 24 also makes it clear that in a claim involving an unidentified driver/owner, compensation may not be given unless you establish that all reasonable efforts have been made by you to discover the identify the “unknown” driver/owner.
- While the police or ICBC may be investigating the accident, you cannot rely on their efforts alone. You must take steps as well and you need to prove what steps you have taken.
To find out more about what steps may be considered reasonable in your circumstances, do not hesitate to contact one of our ICBC personal injury lawyers. Failing to take steps to ascertain the identity of the other driver may lead ICBC or a court to deny you compensation for your ICBC personal injury claim.
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