If you’re parked in a covered garage, a parking lot, or on the street, you may risk having your car hit by another driver. Fortunately, you can prepare to handle this situation by gathering information and mapping out the proper action steps.
Understanding what to do in these circumstances can help you handle the problem effectively and ensure a smoother process for repairs and insurance claims. In this article, we’ll explain the actions you should take if your parked car is hit, and list other practical advice and essential tips to navigate the aftermath of the incident.
Whose insurance covers the damage if your car is hit while parked?
If your parked car is hit, coverage for the damage depends on the circumstances and the auto insurance coverage of both drivers. Here are some examples of parked car accident scenarios for you to review:
If the Responsible Party Leaves a Note: If the person who damages your parked car left a note, their auto insurance should cover it. You can contact their insurance company and inform them about the incident and the other driver’s carrier should cover the costs.
If the Responsible Party Does Not Leave a Note: If the other driver doesn’t leave a note, you should document the damage, file a police report, and then contact your insurance company. Your insurance company should handle the claim and, depending on your coverage, may help cover the costs of repairing your car.
If You Hit a Parked Car: Your insurance property liability insurance will pay for the damage you cause up to your coverage limit. If you have collision coverage, it can help pay for damage to your vehicle.
If Your Car is Damaged in a Hit-and-Run: Your collision or uninsured motorist insurance would cover the damages in the event of a hit and run as long as you have these types of auto insurance coverage.
Steps to Take When Someone Hits Your Parked Car
Whether you are at the scene when it happens, it is vital to take the following steps when someone hits your parked car:
Call the Police: Notify the authorities and file an accident report, since you’ll need this documentation when filing your claim with your insurance company. If possible, you’ll want to obtain a copy of the accident report and the officer's details.
Document the Accident: Gather information about the damage and accident, including the location, time, and weather conditions. Take pictures of the damage and any relevant details at the scene.
Contact Your Insurer: Let your insurance company know immediately and provide them with the necessary documentation. If available, share any information provided by the driver who hit your parked car with your insurance company.
Check for a Note: If the responsible party left a note, contact their insurance company and share the information with your insurer. Your insurer will work with the other driver's insurer to settle the claim.
File a Police Report for Hit-and-Run: If the driver who hit your parked car leaves the scene without any contact information, file a police report for a hit-and-run. File a claim if you can't locate the responsible party.
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