Accidents involving parked cars can be stressful and confusing. Knowing the appropriate steps to take can help manage the aftermath and protect your interests if you find yourself in this situation. Even though you might be responsible, you still have rights.
What Are the Immediate Steps to Take After Hitting a Parked Car?
If you hit a parked car, everyone’s safety is the priority. Check for injuries to yourself and any passengers. Even if there are no visible injuries, it is advisable to call 911. When the police arrive, provide them with accurate details about the accident. The report will include information such as the time, location, and circumstances of the collision and any witness statements, if available.
Next, assess the damage to both vehicles. It is also helpful to take photographs of the damage to both vehicles and the surrounding area. These photos can serve as evidence when filing insurance claims or dealing with legal matters.
What If I Cannot Find the Owner of the Parked Car?
If the other vehicle is unoccupied, the responding officers will instruct you further. They may be able to help you identify the owner through the vehicle’s registration. If you cannot find the other driver, you might leave a note with your contact information on the damaged car. The note should include your name, phone number, and a brief description of what happened.
How Should I Handle the Insurance Claim?
After reporting the accident and collecting the necessary information, contact your insurance company to report the incident. Provide them with details about the accident, including the damage to the other vehicle, the police report number, and any witness information.
Your insurance company will guide you through filing a claim and may offer assistance in contacting the other party’s insurance provider if necessary. Do not offer opinions or go into detail about what happened. Stick to the facts and keep them brief, as your comments could be used against you later.
What Are the Potential Legal Implications?
Legal defenses for hitting a parked car may include proving that the accident was unavoidable due to circumstances beyond your control, such as a sudden mechanical failure or an emergency situation. Additionally, showing that you followed all required procedures, like leaving contact information and reporting the incident, can support your defense.
Hitting a parked car can have legal implications, particularly if you fail to follow those procedures. Depending on the severity of the accident and local laws, you could face penalties for leaving the scene without providing your contact information or failing to report the incident to the police.
In some cases, civil liability for damages may arise, especially if the parked car owner files a claim against you for the damage.
What If I Encounter Issues with the Insurance Claim?
If you experience difficulties with your insurance claim, such as delays or disputes regarding coverage, document all communications with your insurance company. That includes records of emails, letters, and phone calls. Consider seeking legal advice if the issue cannot be resolved through normal channels. An attorney can provide guidance on how to handle disputes and can fight to protect your rights.
A Mount Holly Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Office of David S. Rochman Will Help You
If you have been injured in an accident, contact a Mount Holly car accident lawyer at the Law Office of David S. Rochman. For a free consultation, submit our online form or call 856-751-2345. Located in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, we serve clients in Burlington County and the surrounding areas.