Someone Hit Your Parked Car – Now What?

What To Do If Someone Hits Your Parked Car

Few things are more frustrating than returning to your vehicle and discovering damage — especially when you weren’t even inside the car when the accident happened. This happens more than you think so it is always good to be prepared.

Whether the other driver left a note or drove away, there are several steps you should take immediately to protect yourself and your insurance claim.

Step 1: Document the Damage

Start by taking clear photos of:

• the damage to your vehicle
• the surrounding area
• nearby parked vehicles
• debris or paint transfer

If the other vehicle is still present, photograph:

• license plate
• damage on their vehicle
• driver information if available

The more documentation you gather on scene, the easier it is for insurance companies to determine what happened.

Step 2: Look for a Note

Responsible drivers sometimes leave contact information after hitting a parked car.

The note may include:

• name
• phone number
• insurance information
• license plate

Take a photo of the note before removing it.

Step 3: Check for Witnesses or Cameras

Nearby businesses, apartment buildings, or homes may have security cameras that captured the incident. This is especially important in the case of a hit and run where you need additional information about the other party. Don’t hesitate to get into contact with anyone that may have video footage of the incident. Most video recordings are on a loop and erase within 24-48 hours.  Try not to leave the scene without first asking if any business, apartment building or home could have caught the accident on footage.

You may also find witnesses who saw what happened. If you find a witness, take their name and phone number.  A first name only is sufficient if they don’t want to provide additional information.  Make sure you provide this information to your insurance company as soon as you file a claim. Witnesses can be critical in establishing liability and can often be difficult to get a hold of.

This information can be extremely helpful if the driver left the scene.

 Step 4: File a Police Report (If Necessary)

In many areas, a police report is recommended if:

• the other driver left the scene
• damage appears significant
• there is no contact information

The report creates an official record of the incident.

Please keep in mind that some states require that you file a police report within a relatively short period of time to be able to use your uninsured motorist property damage coverage (e.g. Oregon has a requirement that a police report for a hit and run be reported within 72 hours).  Since this coverage often affords a lower deductible than you regular collision coverage, if your state has this type of rule, file a police report as soon as possible to ensure that the window doesn’t close.

Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company

If the other driver is identified, their liability insurance may pay for the damage.

If the driver cannot be located, your claim may fall under:

collision coverage or uninsured motorist property damage coverage, depending on your policy and state laws.

Your adjuster will review the evidence and help determine the next steps. Provide all the information including photos and videos to your insurance company as soon as possible to aid in the claim investigation process.

The Bottom Line

If someone hits your parked car, your priority should be documenting the scene and reporting the damage promptly. Gather as much information as possible and move quickly. Hesitation may result in losing access to critical information such as video footage, and may also result in your losing the ability to use your uninsured motorist property damage coverage.

Even when the other driver is unknown, insurance coverage may still help repair your vehicle.

© 2026 by The Anonymous Adjuster.