Bumped While Parked? Here’s Exactly What to Do After You’re Sideswiped
It’s one of the most frustrating experiences a car owner can have; you walk out of the grocery store, coffee shop, or your own home, only to find your parked car sideswiped. Maybe there’s a long scratch across the side, a dented door, or even a shattered mirror. The worst part? The other driver is nowhere to be found. Sideswipe accidents involving parked cars are surprisingly common, said a personal injury lawyer Cincinnati Ohio. However, many drivers are unsure of what to do when it happens to them. Taking the proper steps can make a significant difference in protecting your rights, securing repairs, and minimizing unnecessary stress.
Stay Calm and Assess the Damage
The first thing to do is breathe and stay calm. It’s easy to panic when you see your car damaged, especially if the person responsible has left the scene. Before you do anything else, take a moment to assess the damage. Check the entire side of your car carefully, even if the scratch or dent looks minor at first glance. Look for broken mirrors, deep paint scrapes, or any damage to your wheels or alignment. Take plenty of photos from multiple angles. These pictures will be crucial for your insurance claim and any subsequent legal action.
Look for the Other Driver’s Information
By law, if someone sideswipes a parked car, they’re supposed to leave their contact information and insurance details. Check your windshield and driver’s side window for a note. Sometimes people do the right thing and leave their name, phone number, or insurance company information. If they did, snap a photo of the note so you don’t lose it. If there’s no note, look around for possible witnesses who may have seen the accident happen. Nearby drivers, shop employees, or pedestrians might have useful details or even a license plate number.
Call the Police and File a Report
Even if the damage seems minor, it’s usually smart to call the police. In many places, it’s legally required to report a hit-and-run, which is what an unreported sideswipe of a parked car can be. The police can document the accident, file an official report, and sometimes assist in tracking down the driver through security camera footage or eyewitness accounts. Having a police report also strengthens your insurance claim by providing an objective account of what happened.
Notify Your Insurance Company Right Away
Once you’ve documented the scene and spoken with the police, contact your insurance company. Report the sideswipe as soon as possible, even if you’re unsure whether you’ll file a claim. Some insurance policies require immediate reporting, and failing to do so may harm your chances of obtaining coverage. Depending on your policy, you might be able to get the damage repaired under collision coverage or uninsured motorist property damage coverage if the other driver isn’t found. Your insurance agent can help you understand what’s covered and guide you through the claims process.
Consider Speaking with a Lawyer
If the driver left the scene without leaving their information, you could be dealing with a hit-and-run case. Even if the person responsible is identified, dealing with insurance companies and figuring out who pays for the damage can be complicated. This is where an experienced car accident lawyer can step in to protect your rights. A lawyer can help you recover repair costs, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and take legal action if necessary. They can also help if you’re facing medical bills because you were injured while getting into or out of your car at the time of the accident.
Final Thoughts
Having your parked car sideswiped is stressful, but knowing exactly what to do afterward can make the process smoother. From documenting the damage to filing police and insurance reports, every step you take matters. But you shouldn’t have to navigate the situation alone, especially if the responsible driver disappears or refuses to cooperate. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer Cincinnati Ohio can help you hold the other driver accountable and ensure you aren’t stuck paying for someone else’s mistake. If you’ve been sideswiped while parked, don’t wait; speak with an experienced attorney today to protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.
