What happens if you bump into a parked car

You need to report the incident to your insurance company. Your insurance carrier expects you to report any incidents, and you are required to do so according to your insurance policies requirement. Just relay the facts of the case and do not admit blame. It may be tempting to leave the scene after striking a parked car, especially if there is no visible damage.

This is a bad idea. There may be damage that you do not realize, and there may be eyewitnesses who call the police and report you for hit-and-run. The last thing you want is for the police to show up at your door soon after the incident. You also do not know whether the incident was caught on cameras in the parking lot or cameras on a nearby business.

Just because you do not hear from the vehicle owner right away does not mean you will not hear from them. In California, the statute of limitations for property damage is three years, meaning the owner of the vehicle could wait a while before pursuing damages. Avoid leaving specific insurance information but be sure that the owner of the car has a way to contact you.

After you hit a parked car, take photos of both cars involved in the parking lot accident. If possible, take photos of any factors that might have led to the accident, such as a crowded parking lot with vehicles jutting too far into the aisle.

They will file a report and may help you get in contact with the owner of the car. The police report will be an important part of your insurance claim and will record crucial details you may need later. When you are involved in any accident, your agent should be your next phone call. They will help you ensure you have shared the correct information, documented the scene of the accident and have covered your bases.

They can help you check your liability and collision coverage and remind you of your deductible. If your damage is only slightly above your deductible amount, you may want to pay for the repairs yourself rather than paying the deductible and potentially see your rates rise.

Road rage incidents can escalate quickly. The other driver likely didn't mean to hit your car and is as freaked out as you. Whether you witnessed the accident or not, check the area for any potential witnesses. Regardless of the presence of witnesses, you may be able to obtain coverage of the accident from a nearby surveillance camera.

Take pictures of the damage to both cars and the license plate number of the other car. Drivers are generally required to carry liability insurance , which covers accidents in which they are at fault, so document your damage. Many states require you to call the police when your vehicle is involved in an accident.

If there is any noticeable damage, you should contact the police. They can take a report and may know if there are any security cameras in the area. Plus, witnesses are more apt to answer questions from a police officer than you. If the other person is totally to blame, notify his or her insurance company. These are usually insurers that cover high-risk drivers.

The person may renege and your insurer is not going to pay for the damages if you report the accident weeks later.

Get Quotes. Written by: Michelle Megna Michelle is a writer, editor and expert on car insurance and personal finance. Compare Auto Insurance Quotes Please enter valid zip. I am married. I own my home.