Gather all relevant documents beforehand: the police report, photos of damage/injuries, medical records, and repair estimates. Write down a clear, concise timeline of events. Decide on the key facts you will share and practice stating them simply. Have a list of your questions ready. Consider consulting a lawyer before major discussions, especially for serious injuries. Treat all conversations professionally, as notes will be taken.

In most cases, a hit-and-run claim under your uninsured motorist or collision coverage should not cause your rates to increase, as you are not at fault. However, insurance regulations vary by state and company. When you report the claim, you can directly ask your agent, “Will filing this hit-and-run claim affect my premium?“ Get a clear answer before proceeding if you are concerned.

Be cooperative, polite, and stick to the facts. The adjuster is not your advocate; their job is to investigate the claim for the insurance company. Do not volunteer extra opinions or admit fault. Answer questions directly but do not guess or speculate. It is often wise to avoid giving a recorded statement without first understanding your rights. Keep a log of all conversations, including the adjuster’s name, the date, and what was discussed.