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someone crashed into my car while it was parked in the bronx. what do i do law offices of stuart m kerner pc

Someone Hit My Parked Car in Bronx: What to Do

Discovering damage on your vehicle in the bustling backdrop of the Bronx is a jarring experience. You may be wondering, “What should I do if someone has hit my parked car?” Whether you were enjoying a day out, handling daily errands, or simply resting at home, such an incident can stir a whirlwind of emotions and questions.

What steps should you take next? How can you ensure you’re compensated for damages? Navigating the aftermath of such an event in New York’s complex legal landscape can be daunting.

This blog post aims to guide you seamlessly through the process, ensuring you know your rights and responsibilities while working towards a fair resolution.

Someone Hit My Parked Car in Bronx: What To Do

Following an accident in a parking area in the Bronx, proactive steps, from documentation to legal consultation, should be followed to help you secure your rights and compensation.

Meanwhile, in the event that your parked car was hit and damaged and you were not there to witness it, there are steps you can follow to recover your damages.

  • Did you or others in the area see the accident occur? Do not follow the fleeing driver who hit your parked car! You have no way of knowing if they are dangerous or otherwise impaired by drugs and/or alcohol.  Instead, if possible, record their license plate – or, at the very least, as much descriptive information about the vehicle as possible. This can help police identify the driver.
  • Call 911 and file an accident report as soon as you are able.
  • Gather all information from any witnesses to the accident, including their names and phone numbers, in the event the police need to contact them in the future. See if any of them got any photos or videos of the accident or the offending vehicle.
  • Make contact with the surrounding buildings and/or properties to find out if they have security cameras in the area where your parked car was hit and damaged, and request a copy of the footage from the time you were parked.
  • Take several photographs of the scene of the accident to record as much detail regarding the incident and resulting damage as possible.
  • Contact your own automobile insurance company to report the damage. In the event that the other party is located, this will be to your advantage.
  • Finally, consult a qualified law firm to represent you when you have suffered a loss due to a parked car accident in the Bronx.

New York law regarding automobile accidents has much to be aware of when considering your legal rights. The law requires that drivers who have hit unattended vehicles leave a note with their name, address, and contact information in a visible location if they hit and damage a parked car. Leaving the scene of such an accident without providing any kind of information is considered a hit-and-run accident, and it is illegal.

Calling the Police after Someone Hits Your Parked Car: The Importance of an Accident Report

When someone hits your parked car, it’s vital to immediately call the police to obtain an accident report for your insurer.

The moment you discover that someone has hit your car, your immediate reaction may be a mix of shock and frustration. However, it’s paramount to act quickly and efficiently. The first thing to do is call the police so they can investigate and create an accident report. This report plays a crucial role when you contact your insurance company or if you need to take legal action. It provides a documented account of the incident and can be vital in determining who is at fault.

Moreover, if you don’t directly witness the hit, this report can help police locate the driver responsible. If circumstances prevent you from making an immediate call, remember to call the local authorities to file a police report as soon as you can.

Navigating Insurance Policies after Someone Hits Your Parked Car in a Parking Lot

After your parked car is hit, understanding your car insurance policy is crucial to determine how the incident might affect your car insurance rates with the insurance company.

Discovering your vehicle has been damaged is a disheartening experience. Once the initial shock fades, it’s time to think about your insurance policy. It’s crucial to understand how the hit impacts your rates and the nuances of your insurance policy coverage.

Contacting your insurer promptly can expedite the claims process and provide clarity on potential rate changes. Each insurer has its own set of guidelines, and while some insurance companies might increase rates after a hit on a parked car, others might not. Also, if you have comprehensive car insurance, damage to your parked car should typically be covered, but it’s essential to check the specifics of your policy,.

Assessing Your Car and Contacting Your Insurance Company

If someone hits your auto, promptly assess the damage and contact your car insurance company to guide you through the claims process.

Post-incident, you should assess the damage done to your vehicle. Take detailed photographs from multiple angles to ensure you have a clear record of all visible damage. If the hit on your parked car was more than a minor scratch, it’s essential to consult a professional for an estimate on repair costs.

After documenting the damage to your parked car, reach out and contact your insurance agent. Sharing the images and any notes you’ve taken can provide a clearer picture of the situation, ensuring they can guide you on the best next steps with your insurer.

Understanding a Driver’s Misdemeanors and Protecting Your Identity in Car Incidents

A driver who has hit your car and left without a note committed a misdemeanor. So, while dealing with insurance, ensure you protect your identity from potential risks.

When someone hits your car and flees the scene without leaving a note, it isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a misdemeanor. As a car owner, you’re not just dealing with physical damage but potential threats to your identity protection. Be cautious about sharing personal information during the aftermath, especially over the phone. While you’ll need to provide details for insurance purposes, ensure you’re communicating directly with your insurance company or the local police. In today’s digital age, with rising concerns about phone protection, it’s always better to be safe and secure your details, whether related to your vehicle, auto engagements, or other business matters.

New York’s Legal Deadlines after Your Parked Car Gets Hit in a Parking Lot

New York state law states that in the event of an automobile accident in which any party incurs a loss of $1,000.00 or more, all available drivers must file a Report of Motor Vehicle Accident form with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) no later than ten (10) days following the accident.

Failure to do so can result in the suspension of your driver’s license. Additionally, it’s important to understand that the deadline – or statute of limitations – for filing a case pertaining to a vehicle accident in the state of New York is three years from the date of the accident. This means that unless you file the initial complaint in your claim against another party within the three-year period, your case will likely be thrown out by the court. That same three-year deadline applies if the lawsuit is seeking only compensation for the repair or replacement of damaged property (such as a vehicle).

If Someone Hit Your Parked Vehicle, Contact the Law Offices of Stuart M. Kerner Today

If you’ve been injured and want the best possible outcome in your situation, the Law Offices of Stuart Kerner P.C. in The Bronx can help you. Our firm has obtained favorable results for injury victims and their families throughout New York in personal injury cases such as auto accidents, oilfield accidents, traumatic brain injuries, and serious personal injuries.

Our law firm offers a free consultation to discuss your accident and review the legal remedies available to you. We’re available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have about your case. Above all, you shouldn’t feel alone and isolated after an accident. If you’ve been hurt in an accident, we’ll come to you. Our attorney can travel to your home or hospital at your request.

Don’t delay! Call the Law Offices of Stuart M. Kerner, P.C. today at (718) 796-7900.

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