Hit-and-run or uninsured driver in New York: what to do

If anyone is hurt, call 911 first. The NYPD says you are required to stay at the scene and contact the police right away when anyone is injured or killed. NAIC says that if a hit-and-run driver damages your car, you should promptly call the police, and to ask the officer when and where to get the accident report and its number.

The NAIC lists the other car's make, model, year and license plate, the names and phone numbers of any witnesses, and the time, the date and the exact place. Write down anything else you remember.

New York's DFS says Uninsured Motorists Coverage protects you, family members who live with you and people riding in your car if they are hurt by an uninsured or hit-and-run driver in New York State. DFS says No-Fault has $50,000 available. DFS says to give your no-fault insurer written notice as soon as you reasonably can, and no later than 30 days after the accident.

DFS says that if you do not know the vehicle that struck you, or if it was uninsured, you may file a claim with the insurer of a family member in your household who had an auto policy. DFS says that if there was no auto policy in the household, you should file a claim with MVAIC, the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation.

That depends on your own policy. Check whether you have collision coverage, or ask your insurance company what it covers when the other driver can't be found or has no insurance.

Then your own policy may not pay for the repair, so check with your insurance company. You can still ask a body shop for a written estimate first, so you know the cost before you decide. You can ask us for one with the estimate form.

• "Can you look at the damage from photos first?"
• "Can I get a written estimate before you start?"
• "Can you show me what you found when the car is opened up?"