If you discover your parked car has been hit, don’t panic. Take a deep breath and follow a few key steps to protect yourself and streamline the claims process: call the police, document the damage, and notify your insurance company. These actions help ensure your repair and claim go smoothly.
For immediate help filing a claim or reviewing your coverage, call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060.
Should I Call the Police If My Parked Car Was Hit?
Yes. Always report the incident to local police, especially if the other driver isn’t present. Filing a report:
- Documents the time, location, and details of the accident
- Helps insurers validate your claim
- May assist police in identifying the driver in hit-and-run cases
Even if the other driver left a note or stayed at the scene, it’s still wise to call law enforcement. An official report adds legal protection and strengthens your insurance claim.
How to Document the Scene After a Parked Car Accident
Thorough documentation can make or break your insurance claim. Here’s what to do:
- Note details: Time, location, weather, lighting, and how you discovered the damage
- Take photos: Capture the damage, surroundings, nearby vehicles, skid marks, debris, or paint transfer
- Save evidence: Photograph and keep any notes left by the other driver
- Find witnesses: Collect names and contact info if anyone saw the accident
- Look for cameras: Note any nearby surveillance cameras that may have recorded the incident
The more evidence you collect, the easier it will be to prove what happened.
Should I Notify My Insurance Company?
Yes, even if the damage seems minor or the other driver left their info. Most insurers require you to report accidents “promptly.” Timely reporting:
- Protects your ability to file a claim later
- Helps your insurer assist with contacting the other driver’s insurance
- Ensures potential hidden damage is covered if it’s found later
You are not obligated to file a claim immediately, but logging the incident is essential.
Will Insurance Cover My Parked Car Damage?
Coverage depends on the situation and your policy:
If the at-fault driver is known:
- Their liability insurance should cover repairs
- You likely won’t owe a deductible
If it’s a hit-and-run or uninsured driver:
- You’ll need collision coverage or Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) on your policy
- A deductible usually applies
If you have liability-only coverage:
- Unfortunately, damage to your own car isn’t covered
- You’ll have to pay for repairs out of pocket unless the other driver is identified and insured
Will My Insurance Rates Go Up?
It depends on who pays and your insurer’s policies:
- If the other driver’s insurance pays: Your rates typically won’t increase
- If you file through your own collision or UMPD coverage: Rates could go up, depending on the insurer and state rules
Some insurers offer accident forgiveness or don’t penalize for not-at-fault claims. Ask your agent how your rates may be affected before filing.
What If the Driver Fled the Scene?
Treat it as a hit-and-run crime. Here’s what to do:
- Call the police and report every detail you remember (vehicle description, time, witnesses)
- Document the scene and gather any available surveillance footage
- File a claim with your insurer using your collision or UMPD coverage (if applicable)
Some insurers require a police report to process hit-and-run claims, so don’t skip this step.
What If the Other Driver Left a Note?
If someone left a note taking responsibility:
- Photograph and save the note
- Contact their insurance company (or share the info with your insurer to handle it)
- File a police report for added documentation
- Let your insurer know the other party has accepted responsibility
If their info turns out to be false or their insurance won’t cooperate, you can fall back on your policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to call the police?
A: Yes. A police report strengthens your insurance claim and helps if the other driver fled.
Q: What should I document?
A: Take photos, write down the time/location, save any notes, talk to witnesses, and look for cameras.
Q: Should I call my insurance or theirs?
A: Call yours first. If the other driver is known and insured, you’ll likely file a claim with their insurer, but your company can help.
Q: Will my insurance rates go up?
A: Not usually if you’re not at fault and the other insurer pays. But if you use your own coverage, it might affect your rate—ask your agent.
Q: What covers hit-and-run damage?
A: Collision or UMPD coverage (if available in your state). Liability-only won’t cover your car.
Q: What if I only have liability coverage?
A: You’ll need the other driver’s insurance to pay, or you’ll have to pay out of pocket.
Q: What should I do if I hit someone’s parked car?
A: Leave a note with your contact and insurance info, notify police if required, and report it to your insurer.
Q: Do I need a police report to file a claim?
A: It’s not always required, but it’s strongly recommended—especially for hit-and-runs.
Q: How soon should I report the accident?
A: As soon as possible—ideally within 24 hours. Don’t delay.
Q: Will the at-fault driver have to pay me directly?
A: Not usually. Their insurance company will handle payment if they’re insured.
Get Help Today!
By staying calm, gathering evidence, and following the proper steps, you can handle a parked-car accident confidently. For help navigating the claims process or reviewing your coverage, call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060. We’re here to help you get back on the road.