European Union

The driver who hit me can't be identified (hit and run). Can I still get compensation?

27 countries
EU Member States
13 weeks
Typical claim deadline
€5,000+
Min. cover per victim
No fault
Basis of claim
The Short Answer

Yes, you can still get compensation in most EU countries through a national guarantee fund or compensation scheme for hit-and-run victims.

What the Law Says

EU law requires all Member States to establish a guarantee fund to compensate victims of uninsured or untraced drivers — including hit-and-run cases. This obligation stems from the EU Motor Insurance Directives.

The Third Motor Insurance Directive (2009/103/EC) mandates that every EU country set up a body to provide compensation to victims of accidents caused by unidentified or uninsured vehicles.

Article 10(1) states that 'Member States shall ensure that a body is designated to provide compensation for damage caused by unidentified or uninsured vehicles.'

This applies regardless of whether the driver is found — the victim’s right to compensation is based on the accident itself and injury suffered, not on identifying the at-fault party.

National schemes vary in procedure and time limits, but all must comply with minimum standards set by EU law.

Statutory Text

Member States shall ensure that a body is designated to provide compensation for damage caused by unidentified or uninsured vehicles.

— Directive 2009/103/EC, Art. 10(1) — Compensation for damage caused by unidentified or uninsured vehicles

What to Do

1

Report the accident to police immediately — many national funds require a police report as proof of a hit-and-run.

2

Contact your national Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) or equivalent guarantee fund within the deadline (often 13 weeks from the accident).

3

Submit medical reports, witness statements, and evidence of damage/injury.

4

If denied, you may appeal administratively or seek legal aid — some countries offer free legal support for victims.

Sources

statuteDirective 2009/103/EC, Art. 10(1) — Compensation for damage caused by unidentified or uninsured vehicles

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Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.