If someone has hit your parked car, you’re probably feeling panicked and worried about how you’ll get your vehicle fixed. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to obtain compensation for your vehicle repair costs and any other losses you’ve incurred due to the incident.
At Richmond Vona, our Buffalo car accident lawyers have over 30 years of combined experience handling cases like yours. We can provide the advice and representation you need to file a strong insurance claim and get access to helpful damages. Let’s take a closer look at what to do if someone hits your parked car.
Steps to Take After Someone Hits Your Parked Car
If someone has hit your parked car while you were inside of it, you’ll want to take a moment to pause and determine if you’ve suffered an injury. If you’re in need of immediate medical assistance, call an ambulance and get the treatment you need to address your injuries.
If you aren’t hurt or if you weren’t in your vehicle at the time of the incident, you’ll want to take the following steps at the accident scene:
Write Down the Driver’s Information
If the other driver is present at the accident scene or if they left a note on your car, write down their information. It can help to take note of the individual’s name and insurance information. If the driver fled the scene after hitting your parked car, you’ll want to file a police report with local law enforcement.
Take Photos of the Accident Scene
The next step you’ll want to take is to take photos of the accident scene. You’ll want to include close-up shots of vehicle damage and any injuries you may have suffered if you were in the car at the time of the crash. The photos you take can strengthen your claim and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Talk to Eyewitnesses
If anyone nearby witnessed the crash, ask them what they saw. You’ll also want to ask witnesses if they can give an account of what happened to your attorney. If they agree to talk to your lawyer, take down their name and contact information. Your attorney can use witness testimony to add validity to your claim and increase the likelihood of a fair outcome.
Save Your Repair Bills
When it comes time to file a claim, you’ll need to show the insurance company how much you’re owed for vehicle repairs and other losses. Saving your accident-related receipts and financial documents can ensure you get the correct amount of money from an insurance settlement.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
If someone has hit your car while it was parked, taking the above-mentioned steps can help you get the financial compensation you deserve. That said, filing an insurance claim can be difficult, as insurers are always looking for ways to reject your claim or offer you less than what you’re owed.
To ensure you have the best chance possible at obtaining fair payment for your losses, you’ll want to work with an experienced legal representative. A skilled car accident lawyer can use the evidence you’ve gathered to negotiate a fair settlement with insurers. You’ll be thankful you entrusted your case to an attorney when you see the results they’re able to get.
Filing an Insurance Claim for a Parked Car Accident
Since New York is a no-fault state, car accident victims often pursue damages from their own insurance providers. However, no-fault insurance coverage usually doesn’t cover property damage costs. Therefore, the at-fault driver’s insurance company will be responsible for reimbursing you for the money you spend to get your car fixed.
If you suffered injuries or other financial losses in the parked car accident, an attorney can pursue compensation from your own insurer. Whether you seek car accident damages from another party’s insurance, your own policy, or both, an attorney can make sure you get the damages you need to address your unique situation.
Let Your Attorney Deal With the Insurance Provider
If someone has hit your car while it was parked, you’ll want to hire an attorney before you contact the insurance company. Without a lawyer’s guidance, you might accidentally say something that hurts your claim or fall prey to a lowball settlement offer.
As mentioned above, insurers are always eager to avoid financial responsibility, so it’s best to avoid giving them the opportunity to do so. A lawyer can communicate with the insurance provider in an effective way and ensure the settlement process goes smoothly.
If the insurer offers a payment that isn’t large enough to meet your needs, your attorney can work with the insurer to get a better offer. If the insurer has rejected your claim, don’t worry. A rejection can result from insufficient information or other minor issues. Your lawyer can file an appeal and include all the facts and evidence required to get the results you’re looking for.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Skilled Car Accident Lawyer
When you park your car in a lot or on the side of the road, you expect other drivers to pass it carefully without causing any damage. Unfortunately, that’s not always what happens. The good news is that a car accident lawyer from Richmond Vona, LLC, can help you seek compensation if someone hits your car while it is parked.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a skilled lawyer and learn more about your options moving forward. An attorney from our firm can calculate how much you should receive from a settlement, guide you through the claims process, and work tirelessly to get the money you need to fix your vehicle.
