What to Do If You Hit a Parked Car
December 7th, 2020 by Fix Auto USA

You may feel worried, scared, or stressed if you hit a parked car. But, if you know what to do when you hit a car, you can take the necessary precautions to prevent this situation from escalating.
What to Do If You Scratch a Parked Car
If you are backing out of a driveway or parking spot, or take your focus off the road for even a second, you may inadvertently drive into a parked vehicle. Though it may feel like the world is ending, there are steps you can take to help ensure that you and the other vehicle’s owner can rectify the situation quickly.
First, you need to stay at the scene of the collision after you hit a parked car. Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal in every state.
Next, notify the police about the collision. Park your car in a parking spot or safe area on the side of the road and survey any damage to yours or the other vehicle.
If possible, take photos of your car and the other vehicle involved in the collision. This will provide evidence of any damage to either vehicle. It also enables you to capture the other vehicle’s license plate number.
In instances where the owner of the parked car is not present, wait for him or her to arrive. You should wait at least a few minutes to see if the owner will show up at the scene.
If the owner of the parked car does not arrive and you need to depart, leave a note on the windshield. The note should include your name, phone number, and address. It should also provide a brief explanation of the accident.
Finally, contact your insurance company after you hit a parked car. Your insurer can help you navigate the claims process and explain if your insurance rates will rise following the accident.
What to Do If You See a Driver Hit a Parked Car
If you see another driver hit a parked car, assist him or her to ensure that they properly report the accident. Conversely, if the driver leaves the scene, stay behind to help the owner of the parked car document the damage. Provide the owner of the parked car with as much information as you can. He or she can then use this information to report the accident to the police and their car insurance provider.
What to Do If Another Driver Hits Your Parked Car
If another driver hits your parked car, try not to get upset. Collect the driver’s name, address, phone number, and other contact information if he or she is present. Or, check your car’s windshield to see if the driver left a note.
Call the police to report the accident. When police arrive on the scene, get a copy of the accident report.
Capture photos of your car and any damage associated with the accident and notify your car insurance provider. Next, your insurer can guide you through the claims process and help you get your car repaired.
If another driver strikes your parked car and its bumper, fender, or other exterior components are damaged, Fix Auto can help. Our certified auto body technicians can assess any damage to your car’s exterior components and repair or replace them as needed. To learn more about our auto body shop services or to schedule an appointment, please contact us online or call us today at 800.INFO.FIX.
This blog post was contributed by Fix Auto Tustin, a leading industry expert and collision repair shop servicing Tustin.
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