19 Jan What to Do if Someone Hits Your Parked Car
Discovering that someone has hit your parked car can be a stressful and confusing experience. Whether it occurred in a parking lot or while parked on the street, it’s important to know how to handle the situation effectively and get the compensation you may be owed. At National Auto Collision Centers, we’ve seen our fair share of parked vehicles damaged by other drivers, and we’re here to help you if you’re ever in that situation. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if someone hits your parked car.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Don’t Leave or Move Your Car
If you find your car has been hit, avoid moving it from its current position. The location and position of your vehicle can be important for determining what happened, especially if the authorities or insurance companies decide to investigate.
- Locate the Responsible Party
If the person who hit your car is still on the scene, safely approach them to exchange information. This should include names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details.
- Look for Witnesses
If the driver who hit your car is not present, look around for potential witnesses. Anyone who saw the incident may be able to offer valuable details that can help in identifying the responsible party.
- Take Photos
Document the scene by taking photos of your car’s damage, the surrounding area, and any other relevant details. These photos can provide evidence for insurance claims or police reports.
- Contact Authorities and File a Police Report
Regardless of the severity of the damage, it’s important to file a police report. This document is often required by insurance companies and can be essential if you need to identify the person responsible.
Insurance and Coverage
- If the Responsible Party Is Identified
If you can prove someone else is responsible for the damage, their insurance may cover the repair costs. In this case, contact their insurer to start the claims process.
- Unidentified or Uninsured Driver
If the responsible party can’t be identified or doesn’t have insurance, your collision or uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) coverage may apply. Note that in some states, UMPD cannot be used for hit-and-run incidents.
- No Collision or UMPD Coverage
If you can’t prove who caused the damage and you lack the necessary insurance coverage, you’ll likely have to pay out of pocket for repairs.
Handling a Hit-and-Run
A hit-and-run is a serious offense. If someone hits your parked car and leaves the scene, immediately contact the police to file a report. The authorities can assist in possibly identifying the person responsible. Check your insurance policy or speak with your insurer to understand what coverages protect you in such situations.
Contact National Auto Collision Centers Today
If someone has hit your parked car, trust our experienced auto technicians at National Auto Collision Centers in Tucson, AZ, to get it back on the road in no time. Contact our Broadway Blvd location at (520) 760-5536 to learn more or to schedule your repair service.