If you're a car owner, then you know there’s always a potential for accidents. In particular, parking your vehicle can be a challenge. You find a safe spot to park your car, only to come back and find someone has hit it. What do you do?
Here are some helpful tips for when someone hits your parked car.
IF YOU’RE INVOLVED IN A HIT & RUN ACCIDENT
It's a scenario that happens all too often: you return to your parked car to find that it's been hit, and there's no note from the responsible party.
While it may be tempting to drive away and forget the whole incident ever happened, this could potentially be considered a hit and run. In most states, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense, punishable by fines and even jail time.
So, if you find yourself in this situation, it's important to take a few deep breaths and think about the best way to proceed. Suppose there are witnesses who can provide information about the other driver, exchange insurance information, or file a police report. Or, if you're unable to identify the other driver, your best bet is to contact your insurance company and let them handle the claim.
Whatever you do, resist the urge to drive away and hope for the best. It's not worth the risk.
4 STEPS TO TAKE WHEN YOUR PARKED CAR IS HIT
1. Snap some pictures
If you return to your parked car and find it has been hit, it can be a very frustrating and overwhelming experience. However, it’s important to stay calm and follow the proper steps to ensure that you are protected both legally and financially.
The first step is to take photos of your car's damage. Use your phone to snap as many pictures as possible from multiple angles. This will provide valuable evidence if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action.
2. Get as much information as possible
If you're involved in a hit and run, or if the other driver is acting aggressively, the best thing to do is call the police. They can help diffuse the situation and ensure everyone is safe.
However, if the person is cooperating, exchange as much information as they are willing to give, such as their insurance and contact information.
Even if the other driver flees the scene, you may still be able to recover damages through your insurance policy. So it's important to report the incident as soon as possible.
3. Look for witnesses
Anytime your car is involved in an accident, it's important to document the scene as best you can. This includes taking photos of the damage, getting the contact information of any witnesses, and making a note of any other relevant details.
If your car was hit while parked, check for any surveillance footage that may have captured the incident. Speaking with nearby businesses or residents can also be helpful in gathering information.
By taking the time to document the accident, you'll be better prepared to file a claim with your insurance company and pursue any legal action that may be necessary.
4. Start an insurance claim
It's every driver's nightmare: returning to your parked car to find that it's been hit by another vehicle. Although it's stressful, it's important to stay calm and start the insurance claim process as soon as possible.
Contact your insurance company and report the accident. It's essential to do this right away, as details of the accident will be fresh in your mind, and it will be easier to give an accurate account.
Once you've reported the accident, your insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case who will investigate the damage and determine how much your claim is worth. In some cases, you may be able to settle your claim without going through your insurance company.
However, if the other driver doesn't have insurance or the damages are significant, you'll likely need to file a claim with your insurance company. Either way, starting the process right after the accident will help ensure a smooth claims process.
WILL MY INSURANCE COVER IF MY PARKED CAR IS HIT?
If you're involved in a hit-and-run accident or someone hits your car in a parking lot, you may be wondering if your insurance will cover the damage.
Generally speaking, if you can prove that another driver is responsible for the damage to your vehicle, their insurance should cover it. However, if you can't identify the other driver or they don't have insurance, you may be covered by your collision or uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) coverage, depending on your state of residence.
Of course, checking with your insurance company is always best to see what’s covered under your policy. But rest assured that if someone hits your car in a parking lot, you have options for getting the damage repaired as long as you have the right coverage.
Conversely, If you're involved in a hit and run, can't determine who caused the damage to your car, and don't have collision or UMPD coverage, you'll be responsible for the repairs. Collision coverage will pay for damage no matter who is at fault, while UMPD (uninsured motorist property damage) will cover you if the other driver is at fault, but doesn't have insurance. If you have one of these coverages, your insurance company will likely require you to pay a deductible before they reimburse you for the repairs.
If you’re the victim of a hit and run or your car has been hit while parked, it’s essential to take action as soon as possible. Fortunately, you can take steps to make the process as smooth as possible. Follow the steps above to ensure you’re covered for any damage.
If you need help finding the best car insurance coverage for the best price, start by speaking to a SimplyIOA agent at 833.872.4467 or get an auto insurance quote online now.