According to the Gitnux report for 2024, there are 50,000 crashes in parking lots and garages annually in the US. Parking lot accidents account for about one in five motor vehicle accidents, and 14% of all car accidents happen in parking lots.
It can be really frustrating when someone hits your car while it is parked and causes damage. You might be wondering if you can take legal action and sue the person responsible for the accident. If your vehicle gets damaged because of another vehicle, it is classified as a car accident.
Let’s take a look at the steps you can take to protect your rights and receive the compensation you deserve when someone hits your parked car and leaves.
Determining Liability for the Accident
According to a Kansas personal injury law firm’s website, www.northlandinjurylaw.com, the majority of car accidents happen because of driver negligence. In the case of accidents in parking lots, it might be challenging and frustrating to determine who caused the accident. The responsibility for someone hitting your parked car depends on different factors.
In order to determine liability, the first thing you should do is gather evidence, such as photos of the damage, accounts from witnesses, and any available security footage. This evidence will help us determine the cause of the accident.
Make sure to report the incident to your insurance company and provide them with all the necessary information. Investigators will examine the evidence and make a determination regarding fault.
Once the person responsible is identified, you have the option to take legal action against them in order to cover the costs of repairing your vehicle. It would be a good idea to have a consultation with a personal injury lawyer to discuss your rights and options.
Gathering evidence of the damage
Discovering your car’s damage can be heartbreaking. It is important to gather evidence of the damage in order to take legal action against someone who has hit your parked car. Begin by capturing detailed photographs of the entire car, making sure to include any areas that have been affected by the collision.
It is important to have close-up photos of dents, scratches, and paint transfer.
Note any further evidence that supports your claim, such as broken pieces or debris in the scene. You should also get witness statements if possible to support your case. Keep in mind that more proof increases your chances of holding the guilty party accountable.
Notifying the responsible party
After gathering damage evidence, notify the offender immediately. Find the accountable party’s name, phone number, and address. If you witnessed the accident, you may have shared information with the other motorist. If you weren’t there, you can ask witnesses or use surveillance cameras.
Please notify them about the event as soon as you obtain their contact information. Recording the date, time, and topic of this conversation is crucial. This communication is a courtesy and creates a paper trail in case you sue.
Assessing Damages and Compensation
Once you have gathered all the necessary evidence, consult a professional, such as an auto repair expert or an insurance adjuster, to assess the cost of repairs and determine the appropriate compensation for the damages.
You can also consult a car accident lawyer who can help you obtain compensation for the wage loss, stress, or hassle of having your vehicle repaired and needing alternative transportation.
Filing a Lawsuit and Seeking Justice
You must follow certain processes to sue someone for hitting your parked automobile. Gather damage photos, witness accounts, and police reports first. This helps your court case.
Consult with a lawyer who specializes in personal injury or property damage cases. They can guide you through the legal process and help you understand your rights. Once you have all the necessary documentation and legal representation, you can file a lawsuit against the person who hit your car.
Remember, seeking justice is your right, and by taking legal action, you can ensure that the responsible party is held accountable for their actions.
Conclusion
Always remember to stand up for your rights and make sure others are held responsible. If your parked car is hit and the negligent party leaves the scene, you can demand compensation for the inconvenience they caused and the vehicle damage that needs to be fixed.
