If you are involved in a hit and run in Winnipeg, you must report the collision to the Winnipeg Police Service immediately and notify Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) within seven days. Your physical injuries will still be fully covered under the Personal Injury Protection Plan (PIPP), even if the driver is never found.
Experiencing a motor vehicle accident is overwhelming, but the stress multiplies when the other driver flees the scene. A hit and run is a serious summary conviction or indictable offence under the Criminal Code of Canada and the provincial Highway Traffic Act. If you find yourself in this frightening situation in Winnipeg, knowing exactly what steps to take is crucial for your safety and for your future insurance claim.
Fortunately, Manitoba’s unique insurance system protects victims of hit and run accidents. 📍 Whether your car was swiped while parked in the Exchange District, or you were rear-ended on Portage Avenue by a driver who sped away, Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) provides coverage. This article outlines the essential, step-by-step process you need to follow to secure your benefits and repair your vehicle.
Step-by-Step Process for Handling a Hit and Run in Winnipeg
Acting quickly and methodically is the best way to protect your rights. Here is the generally accepted process for dealing with a hit and run collision in Manitoba.
Step 1: Ensure Safety and Call the Police
Your immediate priority is safety. Move your vehicle to the side of the road if it is safe and possible to do so. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately and request an ambulance. In Winnipeg, you must report a hit and run to the Winnipeg Police Service. Even if there are no physical injuries, fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime, and the police need to investigate. Do not attempt to chase the fleeing driver, as this is incredibly dangerous.
Step 2: Document the Scene and Gather Evidence
While the events are fresh in your mind, write down everything you can remember about the other vehicle. Note the make, model, colour, and any portion of the licence plate number. Take comprehensive photographs of your vehicle’s damage, the surrounding area, and any debris left on the road. If there were pedestrians or other drivers who saw the collision, politely ask for their names and phone numbers. Witness testimony is highly valuable when proving to MPI that a hit and run actually occurred.
Step 3: Seek Immediate Medical Care
Adrenaline can mask the symptoms of severe injuries like whiplash or concussions. Even if you feel fine, it is highly recommended to visit the Health Sciences Centre, Grace Hospital, or your local walk-in clinic. Having a medical professional document your condition on the day of the accident creates a clear link between the collision and your injuries, which is vital for your MPI claim.
Step 4: Report the Claim to MPI
You must report the hit and run to MPI as soon as possible. Provincial rules require you to report it within seven days to guarantee coverage for vehicle damage. When you call the MPI claim centre, provide them with your police incident number and all the evidence you collected. MPI will assign an estimator to review your vehicle damage and a case manager if you have suffered bodily injuries.
How Much Does a Hit and Run Cost You in Manitoba?
Because Manitoba operates under a no-fault system, the way you pay for a hit and run depends on your specific insurance policy.
| Coverage Type | Financial Impact in CAD |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury (PIPP) | No cost to you. Medical bills and lost wages are covered by MPI regardless of fault. |
| Vehicle Damage (Basic Autopac) | You must pay your deductible (usually $500 CAD) unless the driver is found. |
| Lower Deductible Extensions | If you purchased extension coverage, your deductible could be reduced to $200 CAD or waived entirely. |
If the Winnipeg Police Service eventually locates the fleeing driver, MPI will waive your deductible and recover the costs directly from the at-fault party. If the driver is never found, you are still responsible for paying your deductible to get your car fixed, but your injury benefits remain fully active.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Reporting the hit and run to the police and MPI should happen within the first week. Getting an appointment for a vehicle damage estimate typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the season and MPI’s volume. 🕘 If you require medical treatments like physiotherapy or chiropractic care, your PIPP benefits will kick in immediately once your medical provider submits the initial reports. If your claim becomes complex—for instance, if MPI disputes whether the damage was truly caused by a hit and run—the investigation could take several months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What if my parked car was hit and the driver left no note?
This is still considered a hit and run. You should report the damage to the local police via their non-emergency line or online reporting system, and then file your claim with MPI. You will likely have to pay your deductible to repair the vehicle.
Will my insurance premiums go up after a hit and run?
No. Under MPI’s Driver Safety Rating (DSR) system, you do not lose points for an accident that was not your fault. A verified hit and run will not cause your insurance premiums to increase.
Can I hire a lawyer for a hit and run claim?
Yes. While MPI handles standard claims smoothly, you may want to consult a lawyer if MPI denies your injury benefits or claims your injuries are not related to the hit and run collision. A local lawyer can help you appeal to the Automobile Injury Compensation Appeal Commission.
What if the police find the hit and run driver later?
If the police identify the driver, you should inform MPI immediately. MPI will refund any deductible you paid and will manage the claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance profile. The driver may also face severe criminal penalties.
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