How to deal with parking lot accidents
A parking lot fender bender may still cause significant damage, so it’s important to know what to do.
On any typical weekend, parking lots at restaurants, sports venues and supermarkets can be packed, increasing the possibility of a parking lot accident and even minor door dings on your car.
If you're involved in a parking lot crash, follow the same protocol you would for any accident. Remain calm, contact authorities, collect and document information, and contact your insurance agent or company to help you through the claim process.
If you hit, scrape or otherwise damage a parked car — or if you're the victim of such an accident — here are some steps to consider:
What to do when you hit someone's car in a parking lot
- Don't drive away from the scene of the accident, no matter how minor. If you leave the scene, you could face criminal hit-and-run charges and penalties.
- Call the police (if necessary). Depending on how extensively the car has been damaged, you may want to involve the police. They'll document the accident, and they may help you find the other car's owner.
- Wait for the other owner. If damage is minimal and you have time, consider waiting for the owner of the vehicle to return. This may not always be practical or safe — such as a nighttime or parking garage accident — so use your judgement.
- Track down the other car's owner. If you are at a business or store, you may be able to find the owner easily. Leave your name and phone number on a piece of paper with the car you hit, just in case you miss the owner. Then, head into the store and speak to someone at the customer service desk. Describe the car to the employee and ask if they can announce it over the store's loudspeaker.
- Leave a note. If you can’t find the owner or you don’t have time to wait, write down the basic information on paper — your name, phone number and a brief explanation of the accident — and place it in a secure spot on the car such as under the windshield wiper. Write down the license plate number and take a photo of the damage if you have a smartphone with you. Share your insurance information with the vehicle owner once you speak with them.
What to do if someone hits your car in a parking lot
- Record evidence. Take pictures of the damage with your smartphone. If this is a parking lot hit-and-run, make note of the time and day when you discovered the damage to your car.
- Take thorough notes. If the other driver is still around, write down their name, address, phone number, driver's license number and insurance company. Collect as much information as possible.
- Contact your insurance agent or company. Let them know what happened as soon as possible.
What to do if you witness a crash in a parking lot
- Provide assistance if possible. If the offending driver is gone, consider helping the other driver document the damage. Give the driver your contact information, in case their insurance company or the police need to contact you for further comment.
Ways to help avoid parking lot collisions
- Slow down and anticipate the actions of other drivers. Distracted drivers are a common danger. Drivers may cut across empty rows, drive too fast or ignore signs and pavement markings.
- Keep pedestrians in mind. Comply with the crosswalks in the parking lot and watch for children who may run ahead of their parents or pedestrians cutting through the lot.
- Use your mirrors and backup camera. You may benefit from moving the side mirrors to help minimize blind spots. It’s also important to turn around and look when you are backing out of a parking spot. Take advantage of the backup camera and any other technology features like the blind spot warning, if available.
- Avoid shopping at peak times. Consider going early or later during the day, instead of the late afternoon when people might be shopping right after work or school.
What role could insurance play in a parking lot accident?
Even if you take all precautions, accidents can still happen. In the case of a covered claim, collision insurance can help provide coverage for your vehicle damages regardless of fault such as if someone hits your car or you accidentally hit a stationary object. A deductible may apply.
Who is at fault in a parking lot accident?
Because parking lots are considered private property and may have limited traffic control signs, it might not be immediately clear who is at fault in a parking lot accident. Circumstances that determine the fault in each crash may vary. Generally, the insurance companies of the drivers involved will investigate the accident and determine who is liable.
If you have questions about insurance coverage, a claim or specifics about an accident, talk to your insurance company or agent.
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