Someone Hit My Car Door and Left the Scene – What Do I Do?
Accidents happen, but when someone damages your car and leaves the scene, it can feel overwhelming and frustrating. Whether it’s a minor dent or significant damage to your door, knowing what to do in this situation will help you navigate the process smoothly, minimize stress, and get your vehicle back to its original condition.
At Boruske Collision, Anderson Collision, and Jerry Ernst Collision Center, we understand how unsettling hit-and-run situations can be. With over 50 years of combined expertise in collision repair across the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky areas, we’re here to guide you through the next steps.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Damage
The first thing to do is remain calm. A hit-and-run is stressful, but maintaining composure is essential for making sound decisions. Take a deep breath and assess the situation.
- Is your car still drivable?
- Is the damage limited to the door, or are other parts of the vehicle affected?
- Are there any safety concerns, such as broken glass or exposed sharp edges?
If the car is unsafe to drive or has sustained significant damage, call for assistance. At Boruske Collision, Anderson Collision, and Jerry Ernst Collision Center, we offer towing services to help you get your car to our facilities safely and conveniently.
Step 2: Document the Scene
Even though the responsible party has left, documenting the scene is crucial for filing an insurance claim and for potential legal follow-ups. Here’s what you should do:
- Take Photos: Use your phone to capture clear images of the damage to your vehicle, the surrounding area, and any debris left behind.
- Note the Location and Time: Write down the exact location where the incident occurred and the approximate time.
- Look for Witnesses: If anyone nearby witnessed the accident, ask for their contact information. Witness statements can strengthen your case.
- Check for Surveillance Cameras: Look around to see if any businesses, homes, or traffic cameras may have captured the incident. This footage could help identify the vehicle or driver responsible.
Step 3: File a Police Report
In hit-and-run cases, filing a police report is essential. Provide the police with all the evidence you’ve gathered, including photos, witness statements, and any potential camera footage. Even if the police cannot immediately locate the driver, having a report on file will be vital for your insurance claim.
At Boruske Collision, Anderson Collision, and Jerry Ernst Collision Center, we’ve worked with countless customers who have been in similar situations. We can guide you through the process of gathering the right documentation and ensure you’re fully prepared.
Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company
After filing a police report, the next step is to notify your insurance company. Explain the situation, provide the police report number, and share the evidence you’ve collected. Depending on your policy, your insurance may cover hit-and-run damage under uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage.
Here’s what you need to ask your insurance agent:
- Does your policy include uninsured motorist coverage?
- What is your deductible for collision repairs?
- Will the incident affect your premiums?
At Jerry Ernst Collision Center, Anderson Collision, and Boruske Collision, we accept all insurance plans and will work directly with your provider to make the claims process as seamless as possible.
Step 5: Schedule Repairs with a Trusted Collision Center
Once your insurance claim is underway, it’s time to repair your vehicle. Choosing a reliable and experienced collision repair center is essential for restoring your car to its pre-accident condition. At Boruske Collision, Anderson Collision, and Jerry Ernst Collision Center, we specialize in:
- Full-Service Collision Repair: We handle everything from dents and unibody repairs to glass replacement and lease return repairs.
- Automotive Refinishing: Our expert technicians provide high-quality refinishing for all vehicle makes and models, ensuring a flawless finish.
- Lifetime Warranty: All repairs are backed by a lifetime warranty, so you can have peace of mind knowing the work is done right.
Our team of highly trained and friendly staff will walk you through every step of the repair process, keeping you updated along the way.
Why Choose Boruske, Anderson, or Jerry Ernst Collision Centers?
When it comes to collision repair, experience, quality, and customer service matter. Here’s why drivers across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky trust us:
1. Family-Owned and Operated
All three of our locations – Boruske Collision in Dayton, Kentucky; Anderson Collision in Anderson, Ohio; and Jerry Ernst Collision Center on Kellogg Avenue in Cincinnati – are family-owned and operated. We’ve been serving our communities for decades with pride and dedication.
2. Convenient Locations
We’re strategically located near major landmarks and highways, making it easy for you to get to us. Whether you’re near the Big Mac Bridge, Lunken Airport, or Anderson Towne Center, help is never far away.
3. Comprehensive Services
From minor dents to major door damage, we offer complete collision repair services for all vehicle makes and models. We even handle aluminum-body vehicles like Teslas with precision and care.
4. Unmatched Customer Care
Our customers are like family, and we go above and beyond to ensure your satisfaction. From arranging towing and rental cars to keeping you informed throughout the repair process, we’re committed to making your experience as stress-free as possible.
Preventing Future Hit-and-Runs
While it’s impossible to control the actions of others, you can take steps to reduce the likelihood of being a victim of a hit-and-run:
- Park in Well-Lit Areas: Choose parking spaces in well-lit and busy areas to deter potential offenders.
- Install a Dash Cam: Dash cams can capture incidents, even when you’re not in the car.
- Be Aware of Surroundings: When parking, take a moment to note nearby vehicles and any existing damage on them.
Trust the Experts to Get You Back on the Road
A hit-and-run can leave you feeling helpless, but you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. At Boruske Collision, Anderson Collision, and Jerry Ernst Collision Center, we’re here to help you every step of the way—from handling insurance claims to restoring your vehicle to its original condition.
Let us take the stress out of the situation so you can focus on what matters most. Use our EZ Estimate Tool to get started online or contact us directly today.
Contact Us
Boruske Collision Center
📍 511 Ervin Terrace, Dayton, KY
📞 (859) 581-0302
📧 [email protected]
Anderson Collision Center
📍 7318 State Road, Anderson, OH
📞 (513) 232-3000
📧 [email protected]
Jerry Ernst Collision Center
📍 4167 Kellogg Ave, Cincinnati, OH
📞 (513) 871-7200
📧 [email protected]
By following these steps and relying on trusted experts, you’ll turn a stressful hit-and-run situation into a manageable repair process. Trust Boruske Collision, Anderson Collision, and Jerry Ernst Collision Center to restore your vehicle and your peace of mind.
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