Steps to Take After Hitting a Car in a Parking Lot
When a lot of vehicles converge in a tight space, parking lot accidents are likely to occur. A trip to the mall, grocery store, restaurant, doctor’s office, sporting event, or concert can result in a fender bender. You may collide with another vehicle, a pole, or even a pedestrian.
While these types of accidents may seem trivial, a lot of damage can still occur. If you ignore them, you could get in trouble with the law and get charged with a hit-and-run accident, which is something you want to avoid at all costs.
If you do end up in a parking lot accident, how should you proceed? Here are the steps to take.
Stay at the Scene
Never leave without taking action, even if the damage appears minor. Driving away could lead to hit-and-run charges.
Call the Police (If Necessary)
If there is significant damage, it is a good idea to call local authorities. A police report can help document the incident and may assist in locating the car’s owner.
Wait for the Owner
]If it is safe and convenient, consider waiting for the vehicle owner to return. But use your best judgment, as this may not be a good idea in a parking garage or at night.
Try to Locate the Owner
If you are near a store or business, leave your contact info on the car, then go inside and speak to customer service. They may be able to make an announcement to find the owner.
Leave a Note
If you cannot wait or locate the owner, leave a note with your name, phone number, and a brief explanation. Secure it under the windshield wiper. If possible, take photos of the damage and the license plate. Once you connect with the owner, exchange insurance details.
What if My Car Was Hit?
If your car suffered damage due to someone else’s negligence, here are some steps to take:
- Document the situation. Use your phone to take pictures of the damage. If the owner is not around and no note was left, make a note of the time you discovered the damage to your car.
- Collect information. If the other driver is still around, gather their personal information, such as their name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance company. The more information, the better.
- Contact your insurance company. Let your agent know what happened as soon as possible so they can start the claims process and help you get repairs.
Contact Us Today
Even though parking lot accidents tend to happen at low speeds, they can still cause significant damage. Make sure you treat them as such and follow these guidelines to avoid legal and insurance issues.
A Charleston car accident attorney from Wyndham Law Firm, LLC can assist you after a crash. We will utilize all our resources and experience to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses resulting from another party’s negligence. Schedule a consultation today. Contact us via (843) 279-5312 or online here.