What Are My Legal Rights If Someone Hit My Car While Parked?
So, you’re in the shopping mall, spending a perfect day out with your friends, and everything’s going great until you reach the parking area and discover that someone has damaged your car’s taillight and bumper while it was parked. If you’re fortunate, you might find a small note attached to your car’s mirror containing the contact details of the person responsible for hitting your car! Otherwise, finding the person who hit the car can be intimidating, with no details at hand.
While experiencing a parked car accident can be distressing, knowing you have legal rights is vital to handle the situation smoothly. By familiarizing yourself with your rights, you can improve your chances of recovering losses for your damaged vehicle and healing from any injuries.
Let’s dive into this blog to learn the rights you have and how seeking assistance from an experienced auto accident attorney in Sacramento can benefit your hit-and-run accident case.
What are Hit-and-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run incident unfolds when an individual fails to stop and fulfill their legal duties, leaving the accident scene. When a parked car is hit, the motorist must take reasonable action to identify the car’s owner and issue a written notification. Traffic rules and regulations governing hit-and-run occurrences are different in each state. If your parked car has been hit, you must not leave the place and obtain as much information as possible. It will help you in your case if you plan to file a lawsuit.
What To Do When Someone Hit My Car While Parked
It can be understandably frustrating to see your car hit while parked. Here are a few steps you can follow after this to increase your chance of getting compensated by the at-fault party:
• Assess the Damage
Check your car for visible damage. Take photos from different angles to document the extent of the damage.
• Look for Witnesses
If there are witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information. Their testimony can be valuable when dealing with insurance claims.
• Note the Details
Pen down the time, date, and location of the incident. Note the other vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number.
• Contact the Police
Depending on the severity of the damage, you may need to file a police report. It can be crucial for insurance purposes and where legal action is needed.
• Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with all the details and evidence you’ve gathered.
• Seek Legal Advice
If the damage is significant or there are disputes with the other party or insurance company, consider consulting with an expert personal injury lawyer in Sacramento specializing in auto accidents and hit-and-run cases.
• Follow Up
Keep track of all communication and documentation related to the accident. Follow up with your insurance company and any legal proceedings as needed.
By taking these steps, you can protect your rights and navigate the complex process of dealing with a parked car accident more effectively.
File an Insurance Claim
If you know who caused the damage to your car, obtain their insurance company information and file a claim with them. It will allow you to receive compensation for the damages under the other driver’s policy. If you can’t find the person who hit your car, you may have to file a claim with your own insurance company. Uninsured motorist coverage usually pays for hit-and-run accidents, but this coverage is not mandatory in all states. Therefore, it’s recommended that you check with your insurance company to determine which type of coverage will protect you in the event of a hit-and-run accident.
Final Thoughts
Parked car accidents are inevitable and happen quite often! Hence, it’s best to prepare for every worst situation by taking a comprehensive car insurance policy and getting acquainted with your legal rights! Follow the above-cited steps to handle the situation calmly and hassle-free. Inform your insurance policyholders and collect as much information as possible. If the party who caused the damage refuses to compensate, you have the right to file a lawsuit against them with the assistance of an experienced attorney.