Accidents involving parked cars are common, especially in crowded parking lots or narrow streets. Knowing what steps to take if someone hits your parked car can help minimize stress and ensure you handle the situation properly. Acting responsibly will help you protect your rights and smooth the claims process. Here’s what to do if someone hits your parked vehicle.
Check for a Note
If you return to your car and find it has been damaged, your first step should be to check for a note from the driver who caused the accident. Responsible drivers typically leave their contact information, including their name, phone number, and insurance details, in a visible location like your windshield. This allows you to contact the at-fault driver to begin the claims process through their insurance. If a note is left, take a picture for your records.
However, if no note is present, this may indicate that the driver left the scene without providing their information. You must take additional steps to identify the party responsible for that case.
Look for Witnesses
If no note is left, you should immediately look for any witnesses who may have seen the accident. Nearby pedestrians, business employees, or other drivers could provide crucial information, such as a vehicle or driver description, and possibly a license plate number. Be sure to collect any witnesses’ names and contact information, as their statements could help support your claim later.
Check for Security Cameras
In today’s world, many parking lots and streets have security cameras. If the accident happened near a business, store, or residential area, there is a good chance that security footage may have captured the incident. Approach local businesses or property managers and inquire about available camera footage. Having video evidence can be incredibly helpful in identifying the driver who hit your car and holding them accountable.
Contact the Police
If the damage to your car is extensive and you cannot identify the at-fault driver, it is wise to contact the local police department. In some cases, filing a police report is required, especially if your vehicle sustained significant damage or if the responsible driver fled the scene. The police report can provide valuable documentation your insurance company may need when processing your claim.
In Pennsylvania, you are only required to report an accident to the police if the accident involves injury, death, or significant damage that renders a vehicle undrivable. However, even if these conditions do not apply, reporting the accident can still protect your interests.
File an Insurance Claim
Once you have gathered all the necessary information, it’s time to report the incident to your insurance company. If the other driver left a note, provide your insurer with their contact and insurance details so they can pursue a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance. If you cannot locate the responsible party, you may need to file a claim under your policy, particularly if you have uninsured motorist coverage. Depending on your policy, you may also be responsible for paying a deductible.
Be sure to take photos of the damage to your car, keep all documentation, and record any conversations with witnesses or involved parties.
Be Confident in Your Case With the West Chester Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks
If you have questions or need assistance after someone hits your parked car and you have injuries, the West Chester car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. can help. Contact us today at 610-565-3701 or fill out our online form to discuss your case and get the legal support you need. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.