What to Do If Your Car Is Vandalized with Scratches?

[LaGabriella]

Here are the steps to take if your car is maliciously scratched: 1. Confirm the Scratches: Examine the scratches on your car to determine whether they were caused by a sharp object or if there are paint marks left by another vehicle, such as a non-motorized one, to assess whether it was intentional vandalism. 2. Look for Clues: Check if other vehicles nearby have also been scratched. If only your car was targeted, try to recall if you have had any conflicts recently that might have led to retaliation. If multiple vehicles were scratched, it indicates a malicious act with serious consequences. 3. Find Witnesses: Ask people around the parking area if anyone witnessed the incident or can describe the person who vandalized the car. 4. Report to the Police: Regardless of the cause, if the perpetrator intentionally fled, it constitutes serious damage. You should immediately report the incident to the police for investigation and handling. 5. File an Insurance Claim: If your car is insured, report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Insurers typically inspect the scene, so avoid moving the vehicle to prevent invalidating the claim. 6. Precautions: Having your car scratched by someone else is frustrating. If the perpetrator is found, you can hold them accountable and seek compensation. However, if no leads are found, you may have to accept the loss. Therefore, always try to park your car within the view of surveillance cameras to facilitate investigation in case of incidents and help identify the responsible party.