Do I have to compensate for hitting a new car without license plates?
3 Answers
Compensation depends on the scope of responsibility of both parties, and the traffic management office can determine the liability division. Here are the relevant details: Vehicle Insurance: Compulsory Traffic Insurance, Vehicle Damage Insurance, Third-Party Liability Insurance, Theft Insurance, Passenger Liability Insurance, Scratch Insurance, etc. Compulsory Traffic Insurance: Compulsory Traffic Insurance is mandatory for every vehicle owner in China as required by law. It effectively ensures basic insurance claims in the event of a traffic accident. This is especially important for vehicle owners who may not have significant financial resources beyond their car. In case of an accident, Compulsory Traffic Insurance can cover the economic compensation that may otherwise be difficult to pay. Failure to purchase Compulsory Traffic Insurance as required may result in the seizure of the vehicle by the traffic management authorities and a fine of twice the amount of the insurance premium.
If you hit a brand-new car without license plates, compensation is definitely required, as it's tied to legal liability. Accident compensation doesn't consider whether the car has plates or not—it only depends on who is at fault. If I made a mistake causing the collision, then I'm responsible for repairing the car or paying compensation. New cars often have higher value, and the absence of plates doesn't mean the owner suffers no loss—it might even affect future registration or resale value. My advice is to stay calm in such situations—don't try to evade responsibility, as that will only make things worse. Calling the police and going through insurance is the most practical approach. Always drive extra carefully, especially around unplated new cars, which are easier to overlook. Maintaining distance and driving slowly can help prevent accidents.
I have a personal experience where a friend's brand-new car got rear-ended before it was even licensed. The other party ended up covering all the repair costs because it had nothing to do with the license plate—a new car must be restored to its original condition if damaged. As the at-fault party, you should actively communicate with the car owner or traffic police. The compensation amount depends on the accident liability, and insurance usually covers most of the costs. When you see an unlicensed car on the road, be extra cautious. Don’t assume there’s no insurance—adjust your driving habits accordingly.
