25 Aug What to Do If You Hit a Parked Car
As careful a driver as you are, there may be a time when you sideswipe, back into, or otherwise damage a parked car. Whether you’re on your own street or in a parking lot, you have a responsibility to own up to your mistake and take certain steps and precautions. Hitting a car and leaving the scene is a crime, even if there is only minor damage. Here’s what to do if you hit a parked car and cause damage.
Never Leave the Scene Without Taking Action
Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime in every state and might be considered a hit and run. Most parking lots have security cameras, and even residential streets have doorbell cameras that may make it easy for a law enforcement officer to identify you as the culprit. You may face a misdemeanor charge or a large fine, and your license may be suspended. If you hit a parked car, attempt to identify the owner. If you are in a parking lot, go back into the shopping center and ask someone to make an announcement. If you are on the street, knock on nearby doors to try to find the owner.
If You Can’t Find the Owner, Leave a Note
If you have exhausted every method of finding the owner of the car, you should leave a note. Your note must contain your name, address, contact information, and an explanation of what happened. If you were driving someone else’s car at the time, you need to leave the name and address of the car’s owner as well. You should also provide your insurance company’s contact information. Don’t be too detailed in your description of what happened. Keep it simple and straightforward. The note must be left securely on the car in a conspicuous location.
Take Photos and/or a Video
Next, take photos of the damage to both cars and their license plates. Taking a video is helpful as well, as it proves location, time, and that nothing has been altered or tampered with.
Look for Witnesses
If you have time, you might see if there were any witnesses to the accident and write down their contact information and a description of what happened. You can also take note of nearby security cameras or doorbell cameras.
Call Your Insurance Company
Finally, call your insurance company to report the accident. In most cases, minor accidents like this will not affect your insurance premium. However, if the damage reaches the company’s chargeable accident threshold, you were ticketed for the accident, or you have had multiple claims over a short time period, your rates may increase. Your property damage liability coverage should pay for the parked car’s damage, and you can get repairs for your car through your collision coverage.
If you have minor or major collision damage in Tucson, AZ, after hitting a parked car or having your car hit while parked, come see us at National Auto Collision Centers. We can repair damage to your car’s frame and body, as well as repair dents and scratches and give your car a new paint job. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call us today or contact us online.