Does 100/300 Insurance Cover Hit-and-Run Accidents?

Hit-and-run accidents are a growing concern in today’s fast-paced world. With distracted driving, reckless behavior, and even intentional evasion of responsibility, these incidents leave victims scrambling for answers—and financial protection. If you carry 100/300 insurance, you might wonder whether it covers hit-and-run collisions. The short answer? It depends.

Understanding 100/300 Insurance

Before diving into hit-and-run coverage, let’s break down what 100/300 insurance means. This is a common liability coverage structure in auto insurance policies:

• $100,000 per person – The maximum your insurer will pay for injuries to one individual in an accident you cause.
• $300,000 per accident – The total limit for all injuries in a single accident you’re responsible for.

This coverage is designed to protect you financially if you’re at fault in a collision. However, it does not cover your own injuries or vehicle damage—that’s where other types of coverage come into play.

The Hit-and-Run Dilemma

Hit-and-run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver flees the scene, leaving victims with unanswered questions:

• Who will pay for medical bills?
• How will the damaged vehicle be repaired?
• What if the driver is never found?

Since 100/300 insurance is liability-only, it won’t help you in a hit-and-run where you’re the victim. Liability insurance only covers damages you cause to others, not damages done to you.

What Coverage Does Help in a Hit-and-Run?

If you’re hit by a driver who flees, you’ll need additional protections:

1. Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage

Many states require or strongly recommend Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage, which can step in when the at-fault driver is unidentified or uninsured. UM coverage can pay for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering

Some policies even include Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD), which covers vehicle repairs.

2. Collision Coverage

If you have collision coverage, your insurer will pay for your car’s repairs regardless of fault—including hit-and-run accidents. However, you’ll still be responsible for your deductible.

3. Medical Payments (MedPay) or Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

These cover medical bills for you and your passengers, regardless of fault. PIP, required in no-fault states, may also cover lost wages and other expenses.

Why Hit-and-Run Accidents Are on the Rise

Several factors contribute to the increasing frequency of hit-and-run incidents:

1. Fear of Legal Consequences

Many drivers flee because they:
- Are uninsured
- Have outstanding warrants
- Are driving under the influence

2. Urban Congestion & Dashcam Reliance

In crowded cities, hit-and-runs are harder to track. However, the rise of dashcams and surveillance has helped law enforcement identify more offenders.

3. Economic Pressures

Some drivers simply can’t afford higher insurance premiums after an accident, leading them to flee rather than face financial ruin.

What to Do If You’re a Victim of a Hit-and-Run

If you’re involved in a hit-and-run:

1. Stay at the scene – Never chase the fleeing driver.
2. Call 911 immediately – Police reports are crucial for insurance claims.
3. Gather evidence – Take photos, note the time/location, and look for witnesses.
4. Contact your insurer – File a claim under UM or collision coverage if applicable.

The Bottom Line

While 100/300 insurance won’t cover your losses in a hit-and-run, combining it with UM, collision, or PIP coverage ensures you’re protected. Given the rise in hit-and-run cases, reviewing your policy and adding these protections could save you from financial hardship down the road.

Stay safe, drive defensively, and always know what your insurance covers—because in today’s unpredictable world, being prepared is the best defense.