Do you know how to react when you hit a parked car? Check out this quick guide from our Orlando Toyota body shop experts.

1. Four things to do after you hit a parked car
Have you ever hit a parked car? If so, you know just how stressful it can be. And while it’s
usually not AS stressful as getting into a collision with another moving vehicle, hitting a parked
car can still present issues and has its own set of rules that you need to follow. Toyota of
Orlando’s Collision Center experts are here to explain!
How should you handle hitting a parked car?
The
fi
rst thing to remember about hitting a parked car is that you can’t leave the scene of the
accident, even if the other driver isn’t there. It’s actually considered a hit-and-run even if no
one was injured. And a hit-and-run is a major o
ff
ense - you can lose your license, face jail time,
have your insurance rates jacked up, and more. And don’t think you can get away with it just
because you didn’t see any witnesses around… security cameras are everywhere.
Since you have to wait around for the other driver to come back, use the time wisely and
document all the details of the accident. You should write down things like:
• The make, model, color, and characteristics of the other car
• The time, date, and exact location of the accident
• A detailed account of what happened

2. And then take pictures - lots of them. You’ll want to document damage to both your car AND
the other car in detail so you can provide the pictures to insurance and have them for your
reference.
But what if the other driver doesn’t come back? How can you avoid being charged with a hit-
and-run accident? Simple answer - leave a note. You should write the other driver a note with
details including:
• Your name and phone number
• A brief explanation of what happened
• Your insurance information
• A request to contact you so you can start the repair process
Be sure to leave the note in a conspicuous location where they’re sure to see it, like under your
windshield wiper.
Finally, be sure to involve your insurance company. Your property liability damage will cover
repairs for the other vehicle, while your collision insurance will cover your car’s repairs. And
although you’ll likely have to pay the deductible, it’ll likely be cheaper than paying for repairs
out of pocket, especially if the damage is pretty bad.

3. Schedule auto repairs at Toyota of N Charlotte
Have questions about repairs or want to schedule them for your car? Call Toyota of N Charlotte
today at (704) 659-2040! We’re open and waiting at 13429 Statesville Road, just o
ff
I-77 at exit
23 in Huntersville.