Construction sites are inherently high-risk zones, not just for workers but also for drivers passing through or near the area. While most accidents are straightforward when it comes to liability and insurance claims, hit-and-run incidents create a maze of legal and financial uncertainties. For contractors, site managers, and construction business owners, understanding whether insurance will cover a hit-and-run can mean the difference between a quick resolution and a drawn-out financial headache.
The Reality of Hit-and-Runs in Construction Zones
Despite traffic cones, signage, and reduced speed limits, construction zones remain vulnerable to reckless drivers. Whether it’s a driver clipping a company vehicle, damaging materials, or causing injuries and fleeing the scene, hit-and-run incidents are more common than many realize. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, hit-and-run crashes in the U.S. result in over 2,000 fatalities annually, a number that includes pedestrians and roadside workers.
For construction professionals, these incidents often raise one crucial question: Will insurance cover a hit-and-run?
Understanding What Your Policy Covers
Answering whether your insurance will cover a hit-and-run isn’t always straightforward. Coverage can vary depending on the type of policy, the nature of the damage, and even the time of day the incident occurred. Below, we break down the most common types of insurance coverage that construction professionals should review.
1. Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)
This is the primary line of defense in most hit-and-run scenarios. If the at-fault driver is unknown or cannot be located, the law often treats the case similarly to one involving an uninsured motorist. If your commercial auto policy includes uninsured motorist coverage, it may cover:
- Damage to company-owned vehicles
- Medical expenses for injured workers or drivers
- Some property damage, depending on policy details
However, not all policies include UM/UIM by default. It’s critical to verify this coverage, especially if your crew frequently operates vehicles or equipment near roadways.
2. Collision Coverage
If uninsured motorist protection doesn’t apply, collision coverage can serve as a fallback. While it typically comes with a deductible, it may reimburse the cost to repair or replace damaged vehicles involved in a hit-and-run.
This can be especially valuable when heavy equipment or commercial trucks are targeted. For instance, if a speeding car damages a stationary cement mixer at night and flees the scene, collision coverage can help manage the repair expenses.
3. General Liability and Builder’s Risk
If a hit-and-run driver damages materials or partially completed structures, you might wonder whether your general liability or builder’s risk policy would respond. The answer is nuanced. Builder’s risk may cover certain kinds of property damage, but exclusions often apply if the incident occurs outside of regular working hours or involves off-site storage.
General liability coverage typically won’t apply unless the claim involves bodily injury or property damage for which your company is being held liable. Since hit-and-run events involve an external third party, these policies may not offer much relief.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run
Whether the damage is minor or extensive, responding swiftly and correctly is vital:
- Document Everything: Take detailed photos of the damage, skid marks, debris, and surrounding site conditions. If there are security cameras nearby, secure the footage.
- File a Police Report: Always report the incident, even if you think it’s minor. Insurers often require a report for hit-and-run claims.
- Notify Your Insurance Provider: Provide them with all evidence and documentation. Ask specifically about how your current coverage addresses hit-and-run scenarios.
- Alert Your Legal Team (if applicable): If there are injuries or significant property loss, getting legal counsel involved early can streamline the claims process and prevent liability disputes.
Prevention Measures Worth Investing In
Mitigating the impact of a hit-and-run starts with proactive safety and planning. Here are a few ideas:
- Install Security Cameras: Especially useful for overnight jobsites or those adjacent to busy roads.
- Use Barricades: Temporary fencing or concrete barriers can prevent unauthorized access.
- Increase Signage: Clear, reflective signs alerting drivers to active work zones and speed limits.
- Limit Vehicle Storage: Avoid parking valuable company trucks or equipment near high-traffic areas overnight.
In the fast-paced world of construction, a hit-and-run can feel like an uninvited disaster. But being prepared and insured makes a world of difference. Policies vary, and not every incident is covered the same way, so it’s crucial to understand your specific insurance landscape and address any gaps before an incident occurs.
Whether you’re overseeing a highway expansion or a downtown renovation, knowing how to protect your crew, equipment, and budget from a hit-and-run can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.
