What to Do When Someone Hits Your Parked Car in Illinois?

Every car owner’s worst nightmare: you return to your parked car and discover that someone has hit it. Whether it’s a simple fender bender or significant damage, it’s frustrating, confusing, and often leaves you wondering what steps to take next. If you’re in Illinois, knowing how to handle the situation and when to contact an accident lawyer can make all the difference in ensuring you’re properly compensated for the damage. Let’s understand what to do when someone hits your parked car in Illinois, what your rights are, and how a car accident attorney can help protect your interests.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first thing to do when someone hits your parked car. It’s easy to panic, especially if the damage looks significant or if the person who hit your car has left the scene. However, your immediate reaction should be to assess the situation carefully. Here’s what you need to do:

• Check the damage

  Look for any signs of damage on your car. If the damage is minor and the responsible party is still around, you might be able to settle the matter without much hassle.

• Look for witnesses

  If someone witnessed the incident, politely ask for their contact information. Their testimony could be vital if the responsible driver claims otherwise.

• Take photographs

  Capture clear pictures of your car’s damage, the surrounding area, and any visible signs that could help show the details of the accident. These photos can be extremely useful for insurance claims or if you end up needing to file a police report.

2. Leave a Note if the Responsible Party Is Gone

If the person who hit your car is not at the scene, Illinois law requires them to leave their contact information behind. If you’re the one discovering the damage, and the person who hit your car has left a note, ensure that you have their contact information and vehicle details.

• Leave your contact information

  If you don’t know who hit your car, leave a note with your name, phone number, and insurance details on the windshield. The other driver might eventually find it.

• Document the details

  Write down the make, model, color, and license plate number of the car that hit yours if possible. Even a vague description could be helpful later.

3. Hire an Accident Lawyer

While you may be tempted to handle the situation on your own, hiring an accident attorney can provide peace of mind, especially if the damage is significant or if the responsible driver is uncooperative.

• A car accident lawyer can help in getting the insurance company to help you and also the other party’s insurance company to pay for the damages. This will enable you to receive fair compensation for your vehicle repairs, any medical treatment (if necessary), and even lost wages if you need to take time off work.
• Insurance companies often look for ways to avoid paying out large claims. An accident attorney will work on your behalf to negotiate with the insurance companies and fight for your rights.
• If the other driver disputes liability or if the case escalates into a lawsuit, having a lawyer will be crucial in presenting a strong case and protecting your legal rights.

4. Contact the Police if Necessary

In Illinois, if the damage to your vehicle is significant or if the other party fails to leave a note, you must report the accident to the police. You’re legally required to report accidents that cause damage to an unattended vehicle.

• Non-emergency police report

  If the other driver is not at the scene, contact the local police department to file a report. This will help document the accident, and it could provide crucial evidence if you need to pursue a claim.

• File a crash report

  You can file a crash report with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) if the accident resulted in significant damage. A report could also be useful if you’re dealing with an uncooperative insurance company later on.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company

After you’ve reported the accident (if necessary), your next step is to notify your insurance company. Even if the other driver is at fault, your own insurance provider will play a big role in handling the claim. Here’s what to do:

• Provide details

  Share all the information you’ve collected: photos, witness statements, and the police report (if applicable).

• File a claim

  If you have collision coverage, your insurance company may cover the repairs to your vehicle, minus the deductible. If the other driver is identified and you know their insurance information, your provider will work with theirs to cover the costs.

• Understand your coverage

  If you don’t have collision coverage, your insurance might not cover the damage. In such cases, you may need to pursue a claim through the other driver’s insurance, which is where an accident lawyer can assist you in navigating the complexities of filing a claim.

Final Thoughts

Being hit while your car is parked can be an incredibly stressful experience. You may likely face challenges with your claim or have legal concerns. That’s why it’s essential to consult with an experienced accident attorney at Marder & Seidler. You can expect complete guidance through the process, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. In the end, knowing what to do when someone hits your parked car in Illinois can help you recover quickly and get back on the road without the added stress of navigating the legal and insurance system alone. Call on 847-985-6767 and get going today.