Did you know that more than 6 million car accidents are reported annually in the United States? In 2021, there were an estimated 6,102,936 police-reported vehicle accidents and 39,508 or 0.7% of those were fatal.
Realizing you’ve just hit a parked car is something many drivers never want to experience. Yet, it’s a scenario that occurs more often than one might think.
Whether it’s a minor scratch or a significant dent, the steps you take immediately after hitting a parked car are critical—not just for courtesy, but also to make sure legal and financial responsibilities are handled correctly.
Let’s look into this article to guide you through the immediate actions after such an unfortunate event, helping you handle the situation with clarity and responsibility.
Assess the Damage
Carefully inspect both vehicles for any visible signs of impact when assessing the damage after hitting a parked car. Look closely at the bumpers, fenders, lights, and other areas that could have been affected. Keep an eye on any scratches, dents, or paint transfer. Document the damage by taking photos from multiple angles. Make sure to capture the overall context of the accident scene.
After visually inspecting the vehicles, check for fluid leaks or unusual noises that could indicate internal damage. Even if the damage seems minor, assess the situation thoroughly. Safety always comes first, so if there are any concerns about the structural integrity of the vehicles, don’t attempt to drive them.
Locate the Car Owner
If you’ve assessed the damage, the next step is to locate the owner of the parked car you hit. Find the car owner to take responsibility and resolve the situation immediately.
Look around for witnesses who might’ve seen the accident or know the owner. They could provide valuable information to help you locate the car owner. If there are no witnesses around, observe the parked car. Check for any stickers, parking permits, or registration information that could indicate the owner’s identity or contact details. If you’re lucky, the owner might’ve left a phone number on a note under the windshield wiper. If the car is parked near a house or business, consider asking nearby residents or employees if they know who it belongs to.
Document the Incident
Begin by taking clear photos of the damage to your vehicle and the parked car you hit. These photos will serve as evidence for insurance claims and any potential disputes. Make sure to capture multiple angles to document the extent of the damage. Note the location and time of the accident and any relevant road conditions in the pictures.
After photographing the damage, jot down the details of the incident while they’re fresh in your mind. Include the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as any other pertinent information such as weather conditions or witnesses present. This documentation can be helpful when reporting the incident to your insurance company or the car owner.
Stay objective and avoid admitting fault in your notes or photos. Simply focus on accurately recording the facts of the situation. Documenting the incident thoroughly can help ensure a smoother resolution process for all parties involved.
Exchange Information
After documenting the incident, exchange information with the owner of the parked car you hit. Approach the owner calmly and politely. Begin by sharing your name, contact information, and insurance details. Ask for the same information from the other party. Exchange driver’s license numbers and license plate numbers, with the make, model, and color of each vehicle involved.
If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information as well. This information may be valuable for insurance purposes later on. Remain courteous and cooperative throughout the exchange. Avoid placing blame or admitting fault, as this is something that insurance companies will determine.
Notify Your Insurance
Notify your insurance company immediately about the accident involving the parked car you hit. Contact your insurance provider to initiate the claims process and guarantee you receive the necessary support following the incident.
When you reach out to your insurance company, be prepared to provide details about the accident, such as the location, date, and time it occurred, and any relevant information about the parked car and its owner if available. Your insurance agent will guide you on the next steps and may request additional documentation to process your claim efficiently.
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to avoid any issues with your coverage or delays in receiving assistance. By keeping your insurer informed and following their instructions, you can deal with the post-accident procedures smoothly and address any concerns regarding the damage caused to the parked vehicle.
Conclusion
If you hit a parked car, you must take responsibility for your actions. Following these steps can help you handle the situation properly and guarantee that the car owner receives the necessary assistance. Accidents happen, but how you handle them can make all the difference.