Hitting a Parked Car, Auto Insurance Implications
Parking lot accidents are stressful, but auto insurance companies have a method for handling them. Here's what you need to know if your parked car is hit or if you hit another parked car.
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Scott W. Johnson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Scott W Johnson is an independent insurance agent in California. Principal Broker and founder of Marindependent Insurance Services, Scott brings over 25 years of experience to his clients. His Five President’s Council awards prove he uses all he learned at Avocet, Sprint Nextel, and Farmers Insurance to the benefit of his clients. Scott quickly grasped the unique insurance requirements of his...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Aug 6, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Aug 6, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
20% of all car crashes occur in parking lots and covered garages. In addition, over 60% of drivers have reported being in an accident where they discovered someone had hit their car while they were away.
Hitting a parked car shouldn’t terrify you since you should already carry liability auto insurance per state law. However, your car insurance rates will increase if you’re at fault for the collision.
If someone hits your parked car and drives away, you may be able to file a claim with your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM).
You can’t buy a Geico hit-and-run policy, but with UM and UIM insurance, your policy will pay for damages caused by hit-and-run drivers and drivers who do not have car insurance or don’t carry enough coverage.
State insurance laws determine when UM/UIM vs. collision pays for hit-and-run drivers or other parked car accidents. Keep reading to learn more about parked car insurance, the insurance implications of hitting a parked car, and what you should do when someone hits your brand-new car or if someone hits your car and drives away.
- Hitting a parked car or someone hitting your car while you’re away can be costly if you’re not protected
- Liability insurance will cover any damages you cause to someone else’s property, but you’ll need collision auto insurance to cover your car
- Uninsured motorist may covers a hit-and-run in some states
What to do When Someone Hits Your Parked Car
First, if you are not injured physically, ensure that the accident scene is not obstructing the roadway or street. If you are injured and need medical attention, call 911 first. Then, call the police immediately so you can file an accident report.
If you can, attempt to gain the at-fault driver’s information. You’ll want this to hold them responsible, and important information can include:
- Name of driver
- Driver’s address
- Phone number of driver
- Copy of their vehicle registration
- Auto insurance information
It’s great to snap photos of this information with your phone to speed up the process or write it down if you have a pen and paper handy. You should also take pictures of any damages to your vehicle and personal property.
During busy times, police officers may not show up to a hit-and-run accident, depending on your state and if there were any injuries. These photos will be very helpful if you have to file a police report after the fact.
Always document the scene and leave a note if you hit a parked car, as failing to do so can lead to legal consequences and complicate insurance claims.
In addition, when dealing with the aftermath of a situation where you hit a parked car and cannot find the owner, it’s crucial to take the appropriate steps to handle the incident responsibly. First and foremost, if the owner cannot be found, leave a note with your contact information and an explanation of what happened.
This is important because failing to leave a note after an incident where you accidentally hit a parked car can be considered a hit-and-run, which may have legal consequences. Even if you believe there is minimal or no damage, it’s still your duty to make an effort to communicate with the owner.
In cases where you’ve backed into a parked car or been involved in an accident in a parking lot, and there’s no note left, it’s essential to report the incident to the authorities or the property owner and inform your insurance company. This documentation will protect you from potential false claims or disputes.
However, if you’ve hit a parked car without insurance, the situation can become even more complicated, as you may be liable for all damages out of pocket. Addressing the damages promptly and considering obtaining insurance for future coverage is crucial. Taking these responsible actions can help mitigate the consequences and ensure that all parties are treated fairly.
If someone hits my car in a parking lot, am I covered?
If someone hits your car in a parking lot, you are usually covered in any case of an accident due to your auto liability coverage. If you have collision auto insurance coverage, then your insurance will pay for it if the guilty party drove off and didn’t leave a note.
The person responsible for a parked car accident is expected to leave their information neatly tucked under your windshield wiper. However, suppose you are the unfortunate victim of a hit-and-run. In that case, and depending on where you live, collision coverage or UM/UIM will pay for your damages minus the deductible.
Moreover, if you accidentally hit a parked car, but there was no damage, you might feel like there’s no need to do anything. However, it’s still important to inspect both vehicles closely for any hidden damage that might not be immediately visible.
Even if you didn’t know you hit a parked car at the time, it’s crucial to be aware that failing to acknowledge the incident could lead to legal complications if it’s reported later. Hidden damage or a delayed claim could turn into your responsibility, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
Does insurance cover hit-and-runs?
Depending on your state, collision insurance or uninsured motorist insurance covers hit-and-run accidents, even those involving parked cars. However, insurance will not cover hit-and-runs if you only carry liability coverage.
There is no such thing as Geico parked car insurance or State Farm hit-and-run parked car insurance, but you can buy coverage from both these companies and other national insurers to protect you from hit-and-run and uninsured drivers. So parked car insurance from Geico is possible, it just isn’t called that.
Subsequently, if your car was hit while parked, it can be a frustrating and stressful experience, especially if the other driver didn’t leave any contact information. Fortunately, many insurance policies, including comprehensive and collision coverage, may help cover the cost of repairs in such cases.
If you do find a note left after someone hit my car in a parking lot, it’s important to contact your insurance company right away. They can assist you in processing the claim and determining whether the other party’s insurance will cover the damages or if your own policy needs to step in.
The situation can become more complicated if, for instance, an Uber driver hit your parked car. Since rideshare drivers are typically covered by a combination of their personal insurance and the rideshare company’s insurance, it’s essential to collect all relevant information and report the incident as soon as possible.
Similarly, if you’re dealing with an unoccupied vehicle incident with Geico, you should file a claim with Geico promptly. Geico generally offers coverage for hit-and-run incidents under their uninsured motorist policy, which can help cover the damage if the responsible driver cannot be identified.
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What to do After You Hit a Parked Car
Park your car out of the way for safety and approach the other vehicle to see if there are occupants. If no one is there, you should leave your contact and insurance information behind as described above.
Of course, some people with questionable ethics might leave a note. If you’re thinking about leaving the scene of an accident because it wasn’t that bad without leaving a note, you could face jail time, suspension of your driver’s license, and an increase in your rates if discovered.
Also, in the event of a hit-and-run incident involving a parked car with Geico, it’s essential to report the incident promptly to both the police and Geico. Geico may cover such incidents under their uninsured motorist policy, which can help with repair costs if the driver responsible cannot be identified.
If you have insurance coverage for a parked car through State Farm, you should contact them to see how your policy applies. State Farm typically allows you to use either comprehensive or collision coverage to handle the damages in such situations.
What are the auto insurance implications after hitting a parked car?
There is a good chance your monthly car insurance rates will go up in the case of an accident, even a parked car collision. In addition, you can expect to pay more if you’re already a high-risk driver with multiple accidents or moving violations.
Alternatively, if someone hits your car without causing expensive damage, you may not want to file a claim to avoid a rate increase. For example, if the cost of repairs is less than your collision or UM/UIM deductible, it won’t be worth filing a claim.
Do you have to pay a deductible if you hit a parked car?
If you hit a parked car, you won’t have a deductible since it’s covered by liability insurance. However, you will have to pay an auto insurance deductible if you file a claim with your collision policy for the damages to your car.
Additionally, when determining if you need to pay a deductible after hitting a parked car, it’s important to understand your insurance policy details. Reviews of Geico’s hit-and-run coverage for parked cars indicate that while Geico may cover damages in such cases, you might still be responsible for the Geico deductible for hit-and-run accidents.
Similarly, State Farm insurance for a parked car generally provides coverage if someone hits your parked car, but you will likely need to pay the deductible outlined in your policy. State Farm coverage for when someone hits your parked car involves this deductible, which can vary based on your specific plan.
In cases like a hit-and-run involving a parked car in California, understanding these coverage details and deductibles can help you manage the financial implications of the incident.
Does accident forgiveness cover hitting a parked car?
Accident forgiveness is an add-on feature offered by several national auto insurance companies. The basic premise is that your rates will not go up after a minor accident if you’ve avoided filing a claim over the last five years.
You can use accident forgiveness if you hit a parked car as long as you carry this add-on as part of your policy and the cost of the accident doesn’t exceed your company’s threshold.
Some companies limit accident forgiveness coverage to collisions that cost less than $500, so shop around and compare multiple policies if this add-on is important to your coverage.
Which auto insurance companies have accident forgiveness? Most national carriers offer it, including:
- Allstate auto insurance
- American Family auto insurance
- Erie auto insurance
- Farmers auto insurance
- Geico auto insurance
- The Hartford auto insurance
- Liberty Mutual auto insurance
- Nationwide auto insurance
- Progressive auto insurance
- Travelers auto insurance
- USAA auto insurance
You can automatically earn accident forgiveness with some of these companies after you remain accident-free for a few years. If you have coverage with any of the above companies, check with an agent to see if you already qualify for accident forgiveness.
Furthermore, when considering whether Geico insurance will go up if someone hits your parked car, it’s important to understand how accident forgiveness might play a role. Accident forgiveness is a feature that can prevent your premiums from increasing after your first at-fault accident, but its effectiveness depends on your specific policy and insurer.
In cases where insurance companies cover parking lot accidents, your rates might still be affected if the accident forgiveness doesn’t apply or if it’s not part of your policy.
Additionally, knowing the hit-and-run laws for parked cars in Florida is important because they can influence how your claim is processed and whether you can recover damages if the responsible driver cannot be identified.
If the incident was a hit-and-run and the other driver is not found, your insurance may cover the damages, but it’s crucial to check if accident forgiveness will prevent your rates from increasing in such situations.
What You Need to Know About Hitting a Parked Car
Hit-and-run accidents are increasing at a rate of over 7% year over year. In Florida alone, there were over 50,000 hit-and-run accidents by the year’s midpoint. Considering that others may not have the same moral compass as you, it’s best to buy the right auto insurance policy.
Your liability insurance will cover any damages you cause when hitting a parked car, but you’ll need collision or uninsured motorist coverage to pay for someone hitting your car.
In addition, when dealing with the consequences of a hit-and-run involving a parked car, it’s important to understand both the legal and insurance impacts. A hit-and-run accident involving a parked car can result in severe legal repercussions for the driver who flees the scene, including potential fines or criminal charges.
For the person whose car was hit, insurance for hitting a parked car usually helps cover the repair costs, but the situation can become more complex if the responsible party is not identified. For instance, a hit-and-run involving a parked car in Minnesota would be subject to Minnesota’s specific laws, which may have different penalties and procedures compared to other states.
Does uninsured motorist cover hit-and-runs? Car insurance will cover hit-and-runs if you carry collision and UM/UIM coverage, but you’ll be required to pay a deductible before insurance kicks in.
Speak with your insurance agent to confirm you’re covered when hitting a parked car. If you need to buy auto insurance, compare multiple quotes from the best auto insurance companies in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does your insurance go up if you hit something?
A simple error like running into anything might become costly. Unfortunately, it’s not unusual to see an increase in your auto insurance rates following damage or a claim, regardless of who’s at fault.
What happens if I hit a parked car without insurance?
Without auto insurance, you’ll typically have to pay out of your own pocket if you have an accident. However, driving a car without insurance and valid proof of coverage is unlawful. If you are in an accident while driving without insurance, you could face jail time, lose your license, and pay higher car insurance rates when you buy a policy.
Do I have to insure my car if it is parked?
All registered cars must have liability insurance in most states, including when parked and not being driven. You can earn a garaging and storing auto insurance discount to reduce your rates while you aren’t driving the vehicle if your company offers it.
What happens if I can’t find the owner of the parked car I hit?
If you are unable to locate the owner of the parked car you hit, you should still make an effort to leave a note with your contact information. If the owner does not come forward within a reasonable amount of time, you may need to report the incident to the police and your insurance company. It is essential to fulfill your legal obligations and take appropriate actions to resolve the situation.
Will my auto insurance rates increase if I hit a parked car?
Whether or not your auto insurance rates increase after hitting a parked car will depend on various factors, including your insurance provider, your driving history, and the specific circumstances of the accident. Some insurance companies may consider this type of accident as an at-fault incident, which can potentially result in higher premiums. It is advisable to contact your insurance company directly to understand how the accident may affect your rates.
What should I do if I accidentally hit a parked car?
If you accidentally hit a parked car, there are several steps you should take:
- Stay at the scene: It is important to remain at the location where the accident occurred.
- Assess the damage: Examine both your vehicle and the parked car for any visible damage.
- Leave a note: If the owner of the parked car is not present, leave a note with your contact information explaining what happened.
- Document the incident: Take photos of the scene, the damage to both vehicles, and any other relevant information.
- Notify the authorities: In some cases, you may need to contact the police to report the incident.
Do I need to pay the deductible if someone else hits my car?
If someone else hits your car, you may still need to pay the deductible depending on your insurance policy. Generally, if the at-fault driver has insurance, their policy should cover the damages, and you can claim it through their insurance. However, if their insurance doesn’t cover the full amount or if they are uninsured, you might need to use your own insurance, which would involve paying your deductible.
How does insurance coverage work if I hit a parked car?
If you hit a parked car, your collision coverage typically handles the damage to your vehicle. This means you will pay for repairs under your policy, but you may need to cover your deductible first. If you have comprehensive coverage, it may also apply if the damage is caused by a non-collision event. Your insurance premiums might increase depending on your insurer’s policies and whether the accident is deemed to be at fault.
What should I do if someone hits my car and leaves the scene?
If someone hits your car and leaves the scene, you should immediately report the incident to the police to create an official record. Document the scene by taking photos of the damage and any relevant surroundings, and gather witness statements if possible. Also, report the hit-and-run to your insurance company to start the claims process and provide all the information you have collected.
What happens if my car is hit while it is parked?
If your car is hit while it is parked, you can file a claim with your insurance company under your comprehensive or collision coverage. The insurance company will assess the damage and determine the amount they will cover. If the responsible party is identified, their insurance may cover the cost, but if not, your own insurance will handle the repairs after you pay your deductible.
What steps should I take if I accidentally hit a parked car?
If you accidentally hit a parked car, you should first ensure that you leave a note on the damaged vehicle with your contact information and a brief explanation of the incident. Take detailed photos of the damage to both vehicles and your surroundings. Report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible, providing them with all the collected information and any relevant details.
What should I do immediately after hitting a parked car?
Immediately after hitting a parked car, you should leave a note on the vehicle with your name, contact information, and a brief explanation of the incident. Take photos of the damage to both your car and the parked car. Contact the police if required by local law, and report the accident to your insurance company to begin the claims process.
What should I do if my car is hit while parked?
If your car is hit while parked, document the damage by taking clear photos of your car and the surrounding area. File a police report if necessary, especially if there are injuries or significant damage. Notify your insurance company about the incident, providing them with all relevant details and documentation to support your claim.
What happens if someone who isn’t on your insurance crashes your car with Geico?
If someone who isn’t on your insurance crashes your car and you have Geico, their coverage may help if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. Geico might cover the damages through your policy, but you would likely need to pay your deductible first. If the other driver is identified, their insurance should cover the costs, but this can be complicated if they have insufficient coverage.
If I hit a parked car, how much will my insurance rates go up?
If you hit a parked car, your insurance rates may increase depending on whether the accident is considered your fault and the specifics of your policy. Insurance companies often adjust premiums based on claims history and the nature of the incident. The increase can vary based on your insurer’s policies and whether you have accident forgiveness or other protections in place.
Does insurance cover damage to a parked car?
Yes, insurance can cover damage to a parked car under comprehensive or collision coverage. Comprehensive coverage typically handles damages from incidents other than collisions, while collision coverage applies when your car is damaged in a crash, including a parked car. Coverage specifics depend on your policy terms and conditions.
Does insurance cover damage in a parking lot?
Yes, insurance usually covers damage that occurs in a parking lot, whether through collision or other incidents. If you have collision coverage, it will cover damages to your vehicle if you are involved in an accident in a parking lot. Comprehensive coverage might also apply for non-collision-related damage.
Does hitting a parked car affect my insurance?
Yes, hitting a parked car can affect your insurance. Filing a claim for such an incident can lead to an increase in your insurance premiums, especially if the accident is deemed to be your fault. The impact on your rates depends on your insurer’s policies, your claims history, and whether you have accident forgiveness or other protections.
Do I have to pay a deductible if I hit a car?
Yes, you typically have to pay a deductible if you hit a car and file a claim under your collision coverage. The deductible amount is specified in your insurance policy, and you must pay this amount before your insurance covers the remaining repair costs.
Does Geico offer insurance for a parked car?
Yes, Geico offers insurance that can cover damages to a parked car if it is hit by another vehicle or involved in a hit-and-run. Coverage specifics depend on your policy, and you may need to pay a deductible. Geico’s policies typically include both comprehensive and collision coverage options for such scenarios.
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Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Scott W. Johnson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Scott W Johnson is an independent insurance agent in California. Principal Broker and founder of Marindependent Insurance Services, Scott brings over 25 years of experience to his clients. His Five President’s Council awards prove he uses all he learned at Avocet, Sprint Nextel, and Farmers Insurance to the benefit of his clients. Scott quickly grasped the unique insurance requirements of his...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.