Hit-and-Run Vehicle Claim in Virginia: Reporting, Coverage & Process
If you were the victim of a hit-and-run in Virginia, 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 to police; within 24-48 hours to insurer. ALPR (license plate reader) data typically retained only 30-90 days.
Quick Reference
Step 1: Report to Police
Immediately to police; within 24-48 hours to insurer
Most states require immediate reporting of hit-and-run to law enforcement. Delayed reporting can void insurance coverage.
Step 2: Document Evidence
- Photos of damage and scene
- Witness statements and contact info
- Dashcam or surveillance footage
- Skid marks, debris, paint transfer
- Police case number
- Detailed time, location, and direction of fleeing vehicle
UM (Uninsured Motorist) Coverage
Required or offered in most states (varies by state minimum)
UM (Uninsured Motorist) coverage applies to hit-and-run incidents. Check your policy declarations page.
Collision Coverage
Collision coverage applies regardless of fault
Most insurers pay hit-and-run damage through your collision coverage with your normal deductible.
Will You Pay Your Deductible?
Varies by state and insurer
Some insurers offer endorsements that waive your deductible for hit-and-run claims. Ask your agent.
No-Fault vs At-Fault
Varies — about 12 states are no-fault for medical
No-fault states require PIP for medical claims. At-fault states use the fleeing driver's liability (if identified).
Virginia Standout Resource
Virginia-Specific Facts for Hit And Run Vehicle Claim
Virginia Vehicle transfer fees and requirements
In Virginia, the title transfer fee is $15 and registration costs $30.75 - $35.75 per year. Vehicle sales are subject to 4.15% motor vehicle sales and use tax (SUT). Virginia does not require notarization for private-party vehicle transfers. Emission testing is required in Virginia — verify the vehicle passes before completing the sale.
- 4.15% SUT applies to all vehicle sales
- Annual safety inspection required
- Emissions testing required in Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Hampton Roads
- Title transfer within 30 days of purchase
Virginia sales tax on vehicle purchases
Virginia has a 4.15% state sales tax rate. 4.15% motor vehicle SUT statewide. Private-party vehicle sales in Virginia are subject to sales tax. Motor vehicle sales and use tax applies to all sales. The title transfer fee is $15.
Virginia bill of sale statistics
BillOfSaleNow has generated 2,073 bill of sale documents for Virginia transactions, with 56 generated this month alone. The most popular vehicle type is car.
More Virginia Vehicle Guides
- Auto Auction Buyer Guide in Virginia
- Buy Here Pay Here in Virginia
- Car Buy-Back Program in Virginia
- Car Buyer Remorse in Virginia
- Car Lease Buyout in Virginia
- Car Loan Default in Virginia
Each guide is written specifically for Virginia laws, agencies, and procedures. Bookmark for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast must I report a hit-and-run in Virginia?
Immediately to police; within 24-48 hours to insurer. Most states require immediate reporting of hit-and-run to law enforcement. Delayed reporting can void insurance coverage.
Does my UM coverage apply to hit-and-run in Virginia?
Required or offered in most states (varies by state minimum). UM (Uninsured Motorist) coverage applies to hit-and-run incidents. Check your policy declarations page.
Will I pay my deductible for a hit-and-run claim in Virginia?
Varies by state and insurer. Some insurers offer endorsements that waive your deductible for hit-and-run claims. Ask your agent.
Is Virginia a no-fault or at-fault state for hit-and-run?
Varies — about 12 states are no-fault for medical. No-fault states require PIP for medical claims. At-fault states use the fleeing driver's liability (if identified).
Do I need a police case number to file a hit-and-run claim in Virginia?
Required for hit-and-run insurance claim. Insurers require a police case number before opening a hit-and-run claim file.
Selling a Damaged Vehicle?
If you're selling a vehicle damaged in a hit-and-run, a Virginia 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: State DMV or DPS. For active claims, follow your insurer and law enforcement instructions exactly.