What to Do When Someone Hits a Parked Car and Leaves in California? (2024)

Finding your parked car damaged with no responsible party in sight is frustrating and unfortunate. The hit-and-run of a parked car can lead to many questions and concerns. Victims often wonder about what steps to take to ensure the most optimal outcome. It is vital to understand what actions to take when faced with this unfortunate situation in California.

Ensure Safety and Assess the Damage

The first priority is to ensure your safety and the safety of others around you. Check your surroundings for any immediate hazards, such as leaking fluids or broken glass, and move to a safe distance if necessary. Carefully assess the damage to your car, taking note of the extent and location of the damage.

Document the Scene

Gather as much information as possible about the incident for your California personal injury attorney. This may include:

• Take photos or videos of the damage and the surrounding area to provide visual evidence.
• Collect the contact information of any witnesses who saw the incident or may have information about the responsible party.
• Note the time and location of the incident.

In some cases, you may also find a note left by the responsible party. Ideally, this should include their contact and insurance information. If you find such a note, keep it safe and contact the person directly to discuss the incident.

Check for Security Cameras

Survey the area for any security cameras that may have captured the incident. If you find a camera nearby, contact the property owner to request access to the footage. Having video evidence of the hit-and-run can significantly help your case. It is also very useful when filing a police report and an insurance claim.

File a Police Report

In California, you are required to report any hit-and-run accidents, regardless of the extent of damage. Contact the local police department and provide them with your collected information. This may include:

• The location, date, and time of the incident
• A description of your vehicle, including the make, model, color, and license plate number
• Any witness statements or contact information
• Photos or videos of the damage and the scene
• Details of any security camera footage that may be available

Filing a police report is crucial because it establishes an official incident record. It may even help track down the responsible party. It also serves as essential documentation when filing an insurance claim.

Contact Your Insurance Company

After filing a police report, contact your insurance company to report the incident and initiate the claims process. Provide your insurer with the police report number and any other relevant information, such as photos, witness statements, and security camera footage.

In California, most auto insurance policies include uninsured motorist coverage. This may help cover the damages caused by a hit-and-run driver. However, the extent of coverage varies depending on your specific policy. Review your insurance policy and discuss your coverage options with your insurance representative.

Consider Legal Action

If the responsible party is identified, you may wish to pursue legal action to recover damages. This can be particularly useful if the damages exceed your insurance coverage or if you have incurred additional expenses, such as medical bills or lost wages. Consult an experienced personal injury or auto accident attorney to discuss your options.

Repair Your Vehicle

After settling the insurance claim or receiving compensation from the responsible party, arrange for your car to be repaired. Choosing a reputable repair shop is essential to ensure quality work and avoid further complications. Be sure to keep all receipts and records of the repair work as proof of the expenses incurred.

FAQs About California Hit and Run on Your Parked Car

Does your insurance go up if someone hits your parked car in California?

In most cases, your insurance rates should not increase if someone else hits your parked car and is found to be at fault. However, sometimes the responsible party cannot be identified. If that happens, your insurance company needs to pay for the damages under your uninsured motorist coverage. Therefore, it is possible that your rates may be affected. Each insurance company has its own policies. Discussing the specifics with your insurance representative is essential.

What do you do if someone hits your parked car in California?

When someone hits your parked car in California, first ensure your safety and assess the damage. Document the scene by taking photos and collecting witness information. Check for nearby security cameras that may have captured the incident. File a police report and contact your insurance company to initiate the claims process. If the responsible party is identified, consider legal action to recover damages. Finally, arrange for your car to be repaired.

How do I report a hit-and-run parked car in California?

To report a hit-and-run parked car in California, contact your local police department. Provide them with all the information you have collected, including:

• The location, date, and time of the incident
• Your vehicle’s description
• Witness statements
• Photos
• Security camera footage

Filing a police report is crucial for establishing an official record of the incident. It can also help track down the responsible party.

Is hitting a parked car a hit-and-run in California?

Yes, hitting a parked car and leaving the scene without providing contact or insurance information is considered a hit-and-run in California. Drivers involved in an accident that results in property damage are required by law to:

1. Stop.
2. Locate the owner.
3. Exchange information.

Failure to do so can result in criminal charges and severe penalties. These can include fines, license suspension, and even jail time.

How long do I have to report a hit-and-run incident in California?

In California, it is crucial to report a hit-and-run incident immediately. There is no specific time limit for reporting a hit-and-run accident involving property damage. However, waiting too long can hinder the investigation and reduce the chances of locating the responsible party. Additionally, insurance companies often require prompt reporting of incidents to initiate the claims process. Delaying may negatively impact your ability to obtain coverage for the damages.

Contact the Law Offices of Carl D. Barnes Today

If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident in California, contact the Law Offices of Carl D. Barnes right away for experienced legal representation. Our team of personal injury car accident lawyers can review your case, discuss your options, and determine the right course of action for maximum compensation. Contact us now to get started.