Hit-and-Run Vehicle Claim in Texas: Reporting, Coverage & Process
If you were the victim of a hit-and-run in Texas, your insurance options depend on coverage type. Here's exactly what to do — and how to maximize your recovery.
Time matters. Report to police Immediately for injuries; within 10 days for property damage. ALPR (license plate reader) data typically retained only 30-90 days.
Quick Reference
Step 1: Report to Police
Immediately for injuries; within 10 days for property damage
Texas Transportation Code §550.026 requires immediate reporting for injuries. Property damage hit-and-runs must be reported via DPS Form CR-2 within 10 days.
Step 2: Document Evidence
- Photos of damage and scene
- Witness statements (Texas Form CR-3)
- Dashcam or surveillance footage
- Skid marks, debris, paint transfer photos
- Police case number from local PD or DPS
- Time and location details
UM (Uninsured Motorist) Coverage
UM/UIM required to be offered ($30K/$60K minimum)
Texas requires insurers to offer UM coverage but you can reject in writing. Hit-and-run incidents trigger UM coverage if you have it.
Collision Coverage
Collision applies regardless of fault
Collision coverage in Texas covers hit-and-run damage to your vehicle. You pay your deductible.
Will You Pay Your Deductible?
Available with UM coverage in some policies
Some Texas carriers waive the collision deductible when you make a UM claim for hit-and-run. Verify with your specific policy.
No-Fault vs At-Fault
At-fault state
Texas is an at-fault state. UM coverage fills the gap when the hit-and-run driver isn't found.
Texas Standout Resource
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast must I report a hit-and-run in Texas?
Immediately for injuries; within 10 days for property damage. Texas Transportation Code §550.026 requires immediate reporting for injuries. Property damage hit-and-runs must be reported via DPS Form CR-2 within 10 days.
Does my UM coverage apply to hit-and-run in Texas?
UM/UIM required to be offered ($30K/$60K minimum). Texas requires insurers to offer UM coverage but you can reject in writing. Hit-and-run incidents trigger UM coverage if you have it.
Will I pay my deductible for a hit-and-run claim in Texas?
Available with UM coverage in some policies. Some Texas carriers waive the collision deductible when you make a UM claim for hit-and-run. Verify with your specific policy.
Is Texas a no-fault or at-fault state for hit-and-run?
At-fault state. Texas is an at-fault state. UM coverage fills the gap when the hit-and-run driver isn't found.
Do I need a police case number to file a hit-and-run claim in Texas?
Required for hit-and-run insurance claim. Texas insurers require a police case number for hit-and-run claims. Without one, the claim may be treated as collision (with deductible).
Selling a Damaged Vehicle?
If you're selling a vehicle damaged in a hit-and-run, a Texas bill of sale documents condition and protects you against future claims from the buyer.
Generate Bill of SaleThis page is informational only and not legal advice. Source: Texas Department of Public Safety — Crash Reports. For active claims, follow your insurer and law enforcement instructions exactly.