You can sue someone for hitting your parked car if they were at fault. When your vehicle is damaged while parked, the responsible driver is legally obligated to cover the costs of repairs and other damages.
However, if they fail to provide their insurance information or refuse to take responsibility, you may need to take legal action to recover what you’re owed. Whether the damage involves minor scratches or severe destruction, understanding your rights and options is critical to getting fair compensation.
Our Kansas City car accident lawyers have the information you need. Let’s break down what to do after someone hits your parked car and how to protect your rights.
What to Do After Someone Hits Your Parked Car
If you’ve discovered that someone has collided with your parked car, it’s essential to take the right steps to protect your claim and strengthen your case. Here’s what you should do:
1. Document the Scene
- Take photos of the damage, including close-ups and wide shots.
- Capture the surrounding area, including any skid marks, debris, or nearby surveillance cameras.
- Look for a note left by the driver with their contact or insurance information.
2. File a Police Report
- Contact local law enforcement to report the incident.
- A police report can serve as an important piece of evidence in your claim and may be required by your insurance company.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company
- Inform your insurer about the damage as soon as possible.
- Provide them with photos, the police report, and any contact information from the other driver.
- Ask about your coverage options, including uninsured motorist protection, if the at-fault driver can’t be identified.
4. Seek Witnesses
- If anyone saw the accident, ask for their contact information and a brief statement.
- Witness accounts can strengthen your case if liability is in question.
5. Contact a Lawyer
- While some cases are straightforward, others can become complicated if the driver is uninsured, denies responsibility, or their insurance company offers a low settlement.
- A Kansas City personal injury lawyer can help you through the process, negotiate with insurers, and file a lawsuit if necessary.
- Contacting a lawyer early ensures your rights are protected and that you don’t unintentionally weaken your case.
Taking these steps promptly can make a significant difference in securing the compensatory damages you deserve and minimizing stress during the process.
Am I Covered by Insurance if Someone Hits My Parked Car?
Yes, you may be covered if someone hits your parked car, depending on your insurance policy and the circumstances.
Common Coverage Options
- Collision Coverage: This covers damage to your car regardless of who is at fault. If the other driver can’t be identified or is uninsured, this coverage can help pay for repairs.
- Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD): If the at-fault driver is uninsured or flees the scene, UMPD can cover the costs, depending on your policy and state laws.
- Liability Coverage: If the at-fault driver is identified, their liability insurance should cover your repair costs.
What to Do
- Document the damage and file a police report.
- Notify your insurance company promptly.
- Consult an attorney if you encounter issues with liability or compensation.
Review your policy for specific coverage details.
Contact our Kansas city personal injury lawyers now.
When Should You Consider Suing?
You may need to sue the at-fault driver for hitting your parked car in the following situations:
- They refuse to accept responsibility. If the driver denies hitting your car, won’t cooperate, or disputes fault, legal action may be your only option to recover damages.
- They don’t have insurance. If the other driver is uninsured, filing a lawsuit may be necessary to hold them accountable and recover compensation.
- Their insurance offer is too low. Insurance companies often provide settlements that don’t fully account for the true cost of repairs, rental car expenses, or other losses.
Filing a lawsuit can help ensure you’re properly compensated for:
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Rental car or transportation expenses during repairs
- Lost wages if the damage disrupts your ability to work
Suing someone after your parked car has been hit is a way to protect your financial well-being when other options fail and ensures that the at-fault party is held accountable for their actions.
How We Can Help
With decades of experience and a proven track record of over $1 billion in recoveries, Foster Wallace Personal Injury Lawyers fights tirelessly for accident victims. Our team will:
- Investigate the incident to gather evidence and determine liability
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement
- Represent you in court if legal action becomes necessary
We understand how frustrating and overwhelming it can be to deal with property damage, and we’re here to make the process as easy as possible for you.
Contact a Kansas City Car Accident Law Firm for a Free Consultation
If someone hit your parked car and you’re struggling to get the compensation you deserve, Foster Wallace is here to help. Dealing with insurance companies or at-fault drivers can be stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. We’ll guide you through every step of the process, from filing claims to negotiating settlements, ensuring your rights are protected and your losses are fully compensated.
At Foster Wallace, we’re committed to fighting for you and holding the responsible party accountable. Whether it’s vehicle repairs, rental costs, or other damages, we’ll work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.
Your Injury. Our Fight. If you’re still wondering if you need a lawyer for a car accident, Contact Foster Wallace today for a free consultation, and let us take the burden off your shoulders while we fight for justice on your behalf.
