We’re often asked, “What do I do if someone hits my parked car.” Accidents happen, but dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run incident involving a parked car can be an overwhelming experience. Whether you’re unsure how to handle the situation or need legal assistance, understanding your rights and options is essential. Our personal injury lawyers in Chicago, IL, are here to provide insight into what to do if someone hits your parked car and leaves the scene of the car accident.
Contact a skilled injury lawyer at Curcio & Casciato by calling 312-321-1111 for a free consultation.
Illinois Hit-and-Run Laws
In Illinois, leaving the scene of a car accident is a serious offense. A hit-and-run driver who causes significant damage to a vehicle or injuries to the other driver can face severe legal consequences. Illinois law typically requires that drivers exchange information and report the incident to the police. If someone hits your parked car and leaves, both the police and your insurance company should be contacted immediately to document the event.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Hit-and-Run Parked Car Incidents
While accidents involving parked cars are unavoidable in most cases, taking preventative measures can help reduce the likelihood of property damage from a hit-and-run incident. Here are some tips to protect your parked vehicle:
- Park Strategically: Choose well-lit, high-traffic areas to park your car. Parking near security cameras can provide evidence if an incident occurs.
- Avoid Tight Spaces: Opt for parking spots with ample room between other cars to minimize the risk of property damage caused by distracted driving or tight maneuvers.
- Install a Dash Cam: Many dash cams have parking mode features that can record hit-and-run incidents, capturing the vehicle of the other driver. However, it’s important to ensure that any recording devices comply with Illinois’ privacy laws, especially regarding audio recording, as Illinois is a two-party consent state for audio recordings.
- Use Protective Accessories: Consider using bumper guards or car covers to reduce damage from minor collisions.
- Stay Visible: Make your parked car easy to see by avoiding blind corners or obstructed areas.
- Monitor High-Risk Areas: Avoid parking in zones prone to accidents, such as near intersections or driveways.
What To Do If Someone Hits Your Parked Car and Leaves in Chicago
If someone hits your parked car and leaves, the first thing you should do is assess the property damage and document the car accident scene. Take the following immediate actions:
- Contact the Police: File an accident report. The police report is typically required by the insurance provider.
- Document the Car Accident Scene: Take photos of your parked car, the damage to your vehicle, and the scene surrounding the car accident. If there are other cars nearby with visible damage or witnesses, note their details.
- Look for Notes or Evidence: Check for a note left by the other driver or surveillance cameras that may have captured the hit-and-run incident.
- Notify Your Insurance Provider: Inform your insurance agent about the hit-and-run accident.
- File a Claim: Ensure you have all necessary documentation, including the police report and photos of the car accident scene, to streamline the claims process.
- Seek Legal Assistance From Accident or Injury Lawyers: Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run can be complex. Consulting with a knowledgeable Chicago auto accident lawyer can help ensure that you understand your rights and obligations under Illinois law.
Legal Obligations After Hitting a Parked Car in Illinois
If you hit a parked car or unattended vehicle in Illinois, you are legally required to either locate the owner of the vehicle or leave a written notice with your contact information and report the accident to the police. Failure to do so can result in a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $2,500
How a Chicago Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Can Help
Dealing with a hit-and-run accident can be complex. Our experienced Chicago car wreck lawyers can assist you with the following:
- Guiding you through the insurance claims process.
- Ensuring that you comply with Illinois laws.
- Helping you secure evidence, such as surveillance footage or witness statements.
- Advocating for your rights when negotiating with the insurance company.
Our injury lawyers help hold the at-fault person responsible for vehicle repairs, we can work towards getting a rental vehicle during the repair process and can assist in dealing with the insurance company and potential legal actions in order to hold the other driver responsible.
Insurance Claim Assistance
Filing an insurance claim is a crucial step after a hit-and-run incident in Chicago.
Your insurance provider will investigate the accident and determine whether your policy includes coverage for property damage caused by a fleeing driver. Key aspects include:
- Collision Coverage: If have collision coverage, this coverage can pay for vehicle repairs after a hit-and-run incident, subject to your policy’s deductible. It’s important to note that collision coverage is considered optional coverage and not mandated by Illinois law.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Optional coverage, such as comprehensive coverage, may also apply to hit-and-run incidents.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: In Illinois, uninsured motorist coverage typically covers bodily injuries resulting from hit-and-run accidents but does not extend to vehicle damage.
Insurance Company Negotiations
Insurance companies may not always offer fair compensation for a hit-and-run accident. Working with an attorney ensures that you’re not left paying out of pocket for significant damage. Your lawyer can handle insurance company negotiations to secure the maximum payout for repairs, deductibles, and other costs related to the incident.
Uninsured Motorist Claims Process
If the fleeing driver remains unidentified, uninsured motorist coverage can often provide compensation for property damage and injuries. The process involves:
- Filing a claim with your own insurance.
- Providing documentation, such as the accident report and photos of the vehicle damage.
- Collaborating with your insurance agent to determine coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions For Hit and Run Accident Cases Involving a Parked Car in Chicago
My Car Was Hit While Parked, Will My Insurance Go Up in Chicago?
Filing a claim under your collision coverage after a hit-and-run may lead to an increase in your insurance premiums, even though the accident was not your fault. Insurance companies often consider claims history when determining rates.
Does Insurance Cover Hit-and-Run Parked Car Accidents in Illinois?
Yes, if your policy includes comprehensive or uninsured motorist coverage, the damages caused by a hit-and-run driver can be covered. Check with your insurer to confirm whether your policy applies.
Someone Hit my Parked car, Whose Insurance Do I Call?
If the hit-and-run driver is identified, you can file a claim with their insurance company. If not, you’ll need to file a claim with your own insurer.
Lawyer For Hit and Run Parked Car Accident in Chicago
A hit-and-run involving a parked car is an unfortunate event that can leave you frustrated and unsure of what to do next. Whether you need answers to questions, like “Will insurance pay if someone hits my parked car in Chicago?” or need help finding the person at fault for the vehicle damage, our skilled hit-and-run accident lawyers in Chicago are committed to helping you through every step, from filing a claim to negotiating with insurance companies to ensure the vehicle damage is covered.
Contact Curcio and Casciato today to learn how we can assist with your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call 312-321-1111 for a free consultation.
