What to Do if You Hit a Parked Car


January 19th, 2022 by

So, you’ve hit a parked car. We get it, and it does happen more often than you’d think. Whether you rolled into a car gently or rammed right into the center of another car, it happens. When it comes to fender benders, it’s hard to avoid and they tend to happen frequently, especially if you lose focus for even a minute. But, the process is a little different if you hit a parked car instead of a moving vehicle. Lucky for you, Toyota of N Charlotte is here with the steps to take.

hit a parked car

Four Steps to Take After You Hit a Parked Car 

Step #1 Don’t leave the scene even if the other car is empty. 

The first rule of thumb, if you hit a parked car, is to not leave the scene of the accident. Even if nobody is hurt, this will be considered a hit-and-run car accident. And, this is one major offense and can land you a ticket, fine, and even jail. Also, you could have your license suspended and your Charlotte Toyota car insurance could spike up significantly. At Toyota of N Charlotte, we recommend trying to stick around until the person returns to their car.

Step #2 Document it all. 

While you’re waiting for the other driver to return to their car, it’s the perfect time to document everything that you possibly can. You’ll want to write down all of the facts that you can. Below is some of the info you’ll need if you hit a parked car!

  • What happened to both of the cars.
  • The date, time, and location of the Charlotte Toyota car accident.
  • The make, model, color, and any other key characteristics the car has.
  • The name of the other driver, contact information, and any other witnesses.

Step #3 Make sure to leave a note. 

So what happens if you hit a parked car, but the other person doesn’t show up? If you can’t wait any longer, then go ahead and leave a note in a place that the owner of the car can easily see. We suggest leaving the note under a windshield wiper so that it will stay in place and dry. Toyota of N Charlotte recommends leaving your name, phone number, car insurance info, and an explanation of what happened.

Step #4 Involve your car insurance. 

At Toyota of N Charlotte, we know you hate contacting your car insurance company, but it’s a must at this point. Even if you have to pay a deductible, it’ll save you some bucks by going through your insurance if you hit a parked car.

Visit Toyota of N Charlotte! 

If you need more tips if you hit a parked car, then stop by today! We have top-rated Charlotte Toyota auto service technicians to help you out! Just book an appointment at (704) 659-2025! We’re open seven days a week at 13429 Statesville Road! Just take exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville. We look forward to helping you today!

Posted in Toyota Tips