So you hit a parked car. After you've gotten over your initial humiliation at hitting something that literally was not moving, it's time to take action... but what do you do? If the car is parked and no one is in it, it's very different than getting into a car accident with a moving vehicle. Luckily, our Charlotte Toyota body shop is here with expert tips on how to react after you hit a parked car. Check out this quick guide!
A guide to what you should do after hitting a parked car
Tip #1: Stay on the scene. Did you know that if you leave the scene of a car accident where you hit a parked car, it's still considered a hit and run even if no one was in the other vehicle? This is a major offense and can lead to jail time, community service, suspension or revocation of your license, fines, and a big hike in your car insurance rates. And don't think you'll get away with it just because there weren't any witnesses - surveillance cameras are everywhere and there's a big chance you'll get caught. Stay on scene to try and talk to the owner of the car that you hit.
Tip #2: Document everything. While you're waiting, take the time to document everything. This means writing down details like:
The make, model, and color of the other car, as well as any stand-out characteristics (like stickers, other damage not from this car accident, etc.)
The date, time, and exact location of the accident
What happened in the car accident
The name and contact information of any witnesses
You should also put your phone to use and take pictures - as many as you can - of both cars and the damage that resulted from the accident.
Tip #3: Leave a note. If you've done your documentation and no one has returned to the parked car still, you can head out. However, to make sure you don't get charged with hit and run, you have to leave a note for the other driver in a conspicuous place (like under a windshield wiper, etc.) and if it's wet outside, make sure the note stays dry and legible. Your note to them should include the following info:
Your name
Your phone number
Your car insurance information
A brief explanation of what happened in the car accident
A request for them to contact you ASAP
Tip #4: Call your car insurance company. Finally, get in touch with your car insurance company. Your property damage liability part of the policy should cover the damage to the other car, while your own collision coverage should cover the damage to your car. It sucks to have to bring insurance into it, but even after paying the deductible, you'll still pay a lot less than you would if you paid for repairs out of pocket.
Schedule repairs after a car accident at Toyota of North Charlotte
Our Charlotte Toyota body shop is ready to get you back on the road - call us after a car accident and let us get your car back into like-new condition! We're open and waiting at (704) 659-2040 and we're conveniently located just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville at 13429 Statesville Road.
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