What to Do If Someone Scratches Your Car?
3 Answers
When your car is scratched by someone else, you can first check the dashcam. If your car is equipped with a dashcam, you can retrieve the footage to find the other party's license plate number and then report it to the police. Relevant information about traffic accidents: Compensation Time: The compensation time is within three months from the date the vehicle is repaired or the traffic accident case is closed. The policyholder should bring the insurance policy, accident handling certificate, accident mediation agreement, repair list, and relevant proofs to the insurance company to claim compensation. Insurance Claim: After a traffic accident occurs, you should properly protect the scene and promptly report it to the insurance company. For road accidents, you should also report it to the traffic department for handling. For non-road traffic accidents, relevant proof materials should be provided.
That day I parked in front of the supermarket, and just as I was about to get in the car, I noticed a scratch on the rear. The other party was trying to leave, so I quickly got out and stopped them. First, don’t panic—safety is the priority. I turned on the hazard lights to avoid a secondary accident, then took out my phone to photograph the entire scene, including their license plate, the details of the scratch, and its location. This way, there’s evidence for follow-up handling. If the other party is cooperative, exchange contact information—remember to get their name, phone number, and license plate details. If they flee, don’t chase; just take photos and call the police, who will help track them down. Then contact your insurance company to report the incident, describing the situation in detail and providing the photos. They’ll guide you through the claims process. Sometimes, minor scratches are cheaper to repair yourself, as filing a claim might increase next year’s premium. I’ve also learned that a dashcam is crucial—it records the entire process and avoids disputes.
As a driver with over a decade of experience, I once found my car scratched by a neighbor while parked downstairs in my residential area. I calmly approached them to discuss the matter. First, it's essential to confirm the other party's identity and see if they admit responsibility. Then, carefully inspect the extent of the damage—is it just a surface scratch or has it reached the primer? If it's minor, polishing might suffice. Be sure to take photos from multiple angles documenting the positions of both vehicles, road conditions, and the time. Reporting to the police for an accident report is crucial, especially when it comes to claims as it serves as evidence. Contact your insurance company to inquire about the process; they might arrange for a free damage assessment or recommend a repair shop. Don't rush to fix the damage—wait for the assessment results before making a decision. I always advise everyone to park away from crowded areas to minimize such incidents.
