Car Insurance Coverage for Parked Cars – When your car is parked in a parking lot, you might wonder if car insurance covers the damage that can occur in such situations. The answer is yes, but the specific type of coverage that applies depends on the circumstances. If another driver is responsible for the damage and remains at the scene, their liability insurance should cover the repairs to your vehicle.
However, if the at-fault driver leaves the scene without providing their information. You may need to turn to your uninsured motorist coverage to pay for the repairs. Understanding the different types of coverage and when they apply is crucial. To ensure that you take the right steps after an incident in a parking lot. This article evaluates Car Insurance Coverage for Parked Cars.
Car Insurance Coverage for Parked Cars
When your parked vehicle is involved in an accident. Different types of insurance coverage may come into play, depending on the circumstances. The at-fault party’s property damage liability, your collision coverage. Or your uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) coverage could potentially cover the damages.
| Comprehensive coverage | This type of coverage covers damage to your parked car caused by something other than another driver’s vehicle, such as vandalism, theft, broken glass, hitting an animal, or natural disasters. For example, if a tree limb falls on your parked car during a storm, comprehensive coverage may pay for the repairs, minus your deductible. |
| Collision coverage | Collision coverage can help pay for damage to your vehicle if you hit a parked car or if your car is hit in a hit-and-run accident. If you have collision coverage, your insurance company will pay for the repairs, minus your deductible. |
| Property damage liability | Property damage liability is a part of most states’ insurance requirements and covers the damage you cause to someone else’s property during a collision or accident. If you hit someone else’s parked car, your property damage liability coverage will help pay for the damages to the other person’s vehicle, up to your policy limit. |
| Uninsured motorist property damage coverage (UMPD) | UMPD is available in some states and may cover damage to your parked car if someone without car insurance hits it. If the at-fault driver flees the scene and cannot be found, your UMPD may not apply, and you’d need to rely on collision coverage instead. |
What do I do when someone hits my parked car?
When someone collides with your parked vehicle, it’s essential to approach it similarly to any other accident. Here are the steps to follow if your parked car is hit or you’re involved in a crash:
- Evaluate whether you need to move your car. If your car is parked, it may not be necessary to move it out of the roadway after being struck.
- Assess the damage and any injuries. Once you’ve confirmed everyone’s safety, take photos of your damaged vehicle.
- Contact the police: If there are injuries, an ambulance may be necessary to provide medical attention. The police can also assist in exchanging information. Obtain the names and badge numbers of the responding officers to obtain the accident report later.
- Collect information: Gather the names and contact information of the parties involved and any witnesses. Ask for the driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. Document the time of day, location of the accident, and weather conditions.
- File a claim: After gathering all the necessary information, you can file a claim online, over the phone, or through a mobile app, depending on your insurance company’s policies.
The process for handling someone hitting your parked car can vary depending on the specific scenario. It’s crucial to understand the appropriate steps for each situation to ensure a smooth claims process.
What if someone hit my Parked Car while I’m Inside?
If someone collides with your parked car while you are inside, it is crucial to prioritize your safety and check for any injuries. If medical attention is required, contact the police immediately. Even if you do not feel injured at first, it is possible to experience symptoms such as whiplash or other minor injuries later on, so it is important to seek medical attention if necessary.
If the other driver remains at the scene, exchange insurance and contact information with them. Once you are ready to file a claim, you can do so under the other driver’s liability insurance, with the bodily injury liability portion typically covering your injuries and the property damage liability coverage addressing the damage to your vehicle.
Depending on your state, you may have medical payments. Or personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, which allows you to file a claim for injuries under your insurance policy. PIP also covers lost wages and other expenses related to the accident.
What if someone hit my parked car and I was injured?
If you sustain injuries from someone hitting your parked car. It’s crucial to evaluate the severity of your injuries and seek medical attention if necessary by contacting the police.
- To file a claim, obtain the driver’s insurance information to use their liability insurance, which typically covers bodily
- Injuries and property damage to your car.
Additionally, if you have personal injury protection (PIP). Or medical payment coverage, you can file for medical expenses and other costs related to the accident.
Parked Car hit-and-run
If someone strikes your parked vehicle and flees the scene without leaving a note, it is considered a hit-and-run accident. In such a situation, it’s advisable to look for security cameras or any witnesses who may have observed the incident. If you’re parked near a business, they might have security cameras that capture the accident. This will help identify the driver who hit your car.
After assessing the damage, take photos or videos from every angle before moving the car from its parked spot. If you have collision insurance, you can file a claim to have the damage repaired. However, hit-and-run incidents may also be covered under uninsured motorist property damage insurance. If you have both coverage types and are unsure which coverage applies. Your insurance company and claims adjuster can assist you in determining the appropriate coverage for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does parked car insurance cost?
Parked car insurance is typically cheaper than full-coverage insurance because it only includes comprehensive coverage. The cost of parked car insurance will depend on various factors. This includes the make and model of your car, your location, and the length of time you plan to store your car.
Is parked car insurance necessary?
Parked car insurance is necessary if you want to protect your car from damage while it’s in storage. If you don’t have parked car insurance and your car is damaged while it’s in storage, you’ll have to pay for the repairs out of pocket.
How long can I keep my car on parked car insurance?
The length of time you can keep your car on parked car insurance will depend on your insurance provider’s policies. Some insurance providers may require you to keep your car in storage for at least 30 days, while others may allow you to keep your car on parked car insurance for a longer period.
What happens if I need to drive my car while it’s on parked car insurance?
If you need to drive your car while it’s on parked car insurance, you’ll need to contact your insurance provider to add liability and collision coverage to your policy. Driving your car without the necessary coverage can result in fines, lawsuits, and an insurance record that will make it difficult to regain insurance in the future.