Hitting another vehicle can be a stressful and confusing experience, whether you’re distracted for a second or navigating a tight parking space. Knowing what to do if you hit a parked car is crucial to avoiding legal consequences and insurance complications. If you’re unsure about how to proceed or need legal advice, the team at Parnall Law in Albuquerque can help guide you through the process.
Steps to Take After Hitting a Parked Car
First, don’t panic; stay calm if you’ve accidentally hit a parked car. Follow these steps to ensure the situation is handled legally and efficiently:
1. Assess the Situation and Stay Calm
Take a moment to breathe and stay focused. Accidents occur, and your ability to remain composed will help you manage the situation more effectively. Check your surroundings and make sure you and any passengers are safe. If feasible, reposition your vehicle to prevent obstructing traffic, but avoid leaving the scene altogether.
2. Locate the Owner of the Parked Car
New Mexico law requires that you make a reasonable effort to locate the titleholder of the damaged vehicle. Look for nearby buildings, businesses, or homes where they might be. If you can find them, explain what happened, exchange your contact information, and take down their details, including their name, address, and phone number.
If you’re in a busy public area, asking around in nearby shops or offices may help you find the person quickly.
3. Leave a Note If You Can’t Find the Owner
If you can’t find the person responsible for the vehicle, laws in New Mexico mandate that you have to leave a note. This message should include your name, phone number, address, and a brief description of the accident. Make sure it is placed somewhere secure, such as under the windshield wiper. You should also mention that you will be notifying your insurance company.
Even if the damage seems minimal, never leave the scene without leaving this information. Doing so could turn a minor accident into a legal issue, including potential hit-and-run charges.
4. Document the Accident
Take detailed photos of both your vehicle and the parked car you hit. This documentation can be critical later when you file a claim with your insurance company. Be sure to capture any damage from multiple angles, as well as the surrounding environment, such as street signs or the parking lot layout. It’s also a good idea to register the accident’s date, time, and exact location.
If there were any witnesses, ask for their contact information. They may be able to help support your account of the mishap.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the situation. While many people are concerned that their rates will increase (more on this below), failing to report the incident can have even worse consequences. Be prepared to provide details, such as the photos you took, any information you gathered from the other vehicle’s owner, and a police report, if applicable.
If you are unsure about the process or need legal advice before contacting your insurer, consider speaking with a lawyer from Parnall Law. Our team can guide you in communicating with your insurance company while protecting your legal interests.
Can I Leave the Scene if I Don’t Find the Owner?
Leaving the scene without providing your information in New Mexico could be considered a severe hit-and-run offense. According to the Department of Public Safety, walking away from the incident location without attempting to contact the other party could lead to fines, license suspension, and even jail time in severe cases.
If you are unsure about what to do or worried about the legal implications of the accident, consulting an attorney is a smart move. Contacting a local lawyer can help clarify your responsibilities and protect you from unnecessary legal consequences.
Will My Insurance Go Up if I Hit a Parked Car?
There is a chance your insurance premium will increase after experiencing this event, but this depends on several factors. If the damage is minor and the repair costs are low, your rates may not be impacted. However, they could rise if the accident results in significant damage or a claim is filed.
New Mexico is an at-fault state, meaning that if you are guilty, you (or your insurance) will be responsible for the damages. This is why reporting the accident and cooperating with your insurance company is essential, even if you’re worried about a rate increase.
Based on AutoInsurance, most insurance companies will assess several factors before deciding to raise your premium. These factors can include the cost of repairs, any previous claims, and your overall driving record. Additionally, if you have accident forgiveness as part of your policy, your rate might remain unaffected even after a minor collision like hitting a parked car.
On the contrary, avoiding notification or covering up the incident can lead to much more severe penalties, including denying future claims or canceling your policy.
Should I Hire a Lawyer?
Hiring a specialist is often a wise decision if you are worried about legal consequences or insurance claims. While many accidents involving parked cars are minor and easily resolved, there are situations where legal guidance is essential. For instance, having a car accident lawyer by your side can be invaluable if the other driver is uncooperative, if there is significant damage, or if the case escalates into a legal dispute.
Need Legal Help? Contact Parnall Law Today
Hitting a stationary vehicle can be overwhelming, but taking the proper actions can reduce both the physical and legal consequences. Stay composed, leave a note if appropriate, carefully document the situation, and inform your insurance provider. If some uncertainties arise or if the issue escalates, seeking legal advice is an intelligent choice. Parnall Law is ready to assist you through each phase of the process. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case and get the expert support you need.