What to Do When Your Car is Hit While Parked on the Roadside?
3 Answers
If there are surveillance cameras in the parking area, you can choose to report to the police, retrieve the surveillance footage, and then locate the at-fault party for compensation. Filing an insurance claim will not result in full reimbursement. Typically, the insurance company will cover 70% of the costs, and the remaining portion will need to be paid out of pocket.
I previously encountered a situation where my car was hit while parked on the roadside. At the time, I first confirmed that I was not injured, then immediately got out of the car to inspect the damaged areas. I took out my phone to take photos and videos, capturing details including the license plate, impact points, the position of the other vehicle, and a panoramic view of the road. Remember, never move the car to avoid destroying the scene. Next, I called 110 to report the incident, clearly describing the location such as the street name or landmark, and stating that it was a non-moving accident. When the police arrived, I cooperated in making a statement and obtained the accident liability determination form. At the same time, I noted down the other driver's information: license plate number, name, phone number, and ID card number. If lucky, I would find witnesses nearby and keep their contact information as testimony. Afterward, I contacted my insurance company to submit the necessary materials for a claim. For prevention, I suggest parking under surveillance cameras and installing a 24-hour dashcam, which is also very practical. Safety first—stay calm when dealing with incidents and avoid impulsive discussions about liability. For repairs, go to a reputable shop for a comprehensive check of hidden issues.
When my car was hit and stopped on the roadside, I was super panicked, but my friend had taught me the procedure: stop the car, turn off the engine, and turn on the hazard lights. Carefully check the extent of the collision—don’t underestimate scratches as there might be internal damage. Quickly take photos and videos, focusing on the damaged areas and the surrounding environment. When calling the police, clearly report the location, such as near a crossroads, and don’t forget to mention the time. After the police arrive and verify the incident, make sure to get the accident report without missing any details. Obtain the other party’s information, including the car model and insurance details. Beginners often overlook the time limit for reporting to insurance—remember to contact your car insurance company within 24 hours to file a claim. After the incident, choose a professional repair shop for assessment. My lesson from that experience was parking in too hidden a spot—now I always pick a visible open area. Installing a dash cam has given me much more peace of mind. The core of safety is taking timely action without delay to ensure smooth follow-up procedures and minimize hassle.
