This article will help you to understand what to do after a parking lot accident.
Did you know that parking lots are the site of one in five accidents? Even though most are minor, many drivers don’t know how to deal with the situation. Do I need to report it the police? Do I need to inform my insurance? Parking lot accidents can bring up many questions. Parking lot accidents are different from other car accidents because they are private property. These are the four insurance issues you should consider in the event of a parking-lot accident.
Insurance Cover
Parking lots are considered private property and accidents that happen in these areas fall under the umbrella of collision insurance. This policy covers you in both situations, regardless of whether you are at fault. Your insurer will cover the damages if you are at fault. You can file a claim for reimbursement of repairing costs if you are not responsible. Your insurer might investigate the facts and determine who was responsible before paying out any payments. Their findings will determine the amount of compensation.
Fault determination
A set of rules is in place to determine who is responsible for an accident that occurs in a parking garage. Some rules are universal. You are responsible if you rear-end another vehicle. Parking lot situations are subject to several rules. You are liable if you fail to see a stop sign or strike another car in the rear. You are also responsible if pedestrians are hit from behind.
Car Insurance Premium
If you are found at fault for an accident in a parking lot, your premium will be higher. If your policy contains an accident forgiveness clause, and it applies to that particular accident, this can be avoided. It is important to remember that any accident has the same legal consequences regardless of whether it occurred in a public or private place. You could be charged with DUI if the accident was caused by driving while impaired. Your license may also be subject to demerit points.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
Even your parked vehicle can be involved in accidents. You might be hit by another vehicle or someone opens the car door to smash it against your vehicle. Your insurance company will likely treat the incident as a hit and run case if it happens in your absence. You will be reimbursed under collision coverage in such cases. Your premium rate will increase if you are at-fault in an accident.
If you are found to be at fault, and you don’t have collision-coverage you will be responsible for the repair costs. To cover the cost, you will need to pay a deductible. However, you must inform the police and get a report.
No matter if it is a parking lot or public street, you should never get into a fight about who was at fault. And, most importantly, don’t admit to being the cause. Avoid parking in places that are too crowded to avoid these predicaments.