Unfortunately, a mistake such as accidentally hitting a parked car can happen anytime. This situation can become quite stressful, especially if you are unaware of the proper procedural steps following this type of accident. Vehicle collisions can sometimes be so minor that brushing into an object such as a parked car goes unnoticed. However, this scenario can quickly become quite problematic, as this would be considered a “hit and run” collision, which is regarded as a crime in many states.
If you have recently become involved in a car accident, the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm can help guide you throughout the car accident claim process to ensure you receive the representation you deserve. Attorney Ali Awad, ‘the CEO Lawyer,’ established the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm and quickly turned it into one of the fastest-growing law firms in the country. When you need help with a car accident claim, call the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Firm to receive your free, no-obligation consultation.
Is Hitting a Parked Car Considered an Accident?
In Georgia, if a driver hits another vehicle, whether that driver was in the car or away, it is considered an accident. According to Georgia law, §40-6-270, you mustn’t leave the scene of an accident. If you have hit a parked car or been involved in any other type of collision with a driver or a pedestrian, you must:
- Remain at the scene
- Attempt to move your vehicle to avoid obstruction of traffic
- Call the police and ambulance if necessary
- Provide your insurance information, name, address, license, and registration
Depending on the circumstances surrounding the collision, you will likely be responsible for any damages incurred if you hit another vehicle. However, by choosing to remain at the scene and follow the proper procedures following this type of collision, you will likely avoid any penalties and punitive damages associated with a hit-and-run accident.
Yet, suppose an individual does drive away after striking another vehicle. In that case, Georgia law dictates that that driver may be charged and convicted with either a misdemeanor or a felony – depending on the extent of the injuries that any other party may have sustained. If a party suffered no physical injuries, the hit and run will be classified as a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to 12 months of jail time and a $1,000.00 fine. However, if there are severe injuries or death to another party in the parked car, the hit and run will be classified as a felony criminal offense. Conviction of a felony offense pertaining to a hit and run accident in Georgia may be punishable by up to five years of jail time and a $1,000.00 fine.
What Do I Do if I Hit a Parked Car?
Car accidents can happen to even the most cautious drivers, hence the term “accident.” Car insurance is there to keep you protected. For example, if you hit a parked car, the other driver’s insurance may cover a claim if filed, but if it doesn’t, your insurance may.
As Georgia is not a no-fault state, the driver found at fault is liable for any associated damages. Therefore, if you hit a parked car, you will be responsible for any damages incurred and should follow these steps.
- Stay calm and seek any medical assistance if necessary. The first thing you should do is ensure that no one is hurt. Then, call 911 to report the accident and any injuries.
- Ensure you remain at the scene to report the accident to the police and exchange information with the other driver.
- If you cannot locate the other vehicle’s owner, leave a note on their windshield with your contact information. This information should include your name, number, address, and what happened.
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including every car involved. This may be useful later if insurance claims or lawsuits are filed.
- Notify your insurer directly following the accident. You must inform your insurance carrier, especially if another driver later files a claim. If the accident goes unreported, some insurers will refuse to pay any damages related to the accident.
- Seek legal advice. When facing a situation such as hitting a parked car, seek legal advice from a Georgia car accident attorney. Ensure you remain honest with your attorney and relay everything you know about the accident.
Will Hitting a Parked Car Increase Car Insurance Rates for Me?
If you mistakenly collide with a parked car, a car insurance rate increase will not necessarily occur. However, your car insurance company will consider whether you have a clean driving record, whether or not the other party sustained injuries, and whether or not you were found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you have maintained a clean driving record and there were no injuries sustained concerning the accident, you may be able to keep your current rates.
You must report your accident. Your insurance rates will increase if you are later convicted of a hit and run. However, if this is your first offense, you may keep your premium at the same rate.
After hitting a parked car in Georgia, regarding your car insurance rates, there are likely two possible outcomes:
Accident Forgiveness
In many cases, your car insurance carrier will offer accident forgiveness if this is the first time you are involved in an accident in which you were at fault. If you receive accident forgiveness, your rates will remain the same, even after reporting the accident.
If You Are Deemed a Risky Driver
If you already have some existing accidents on your record, your car insurance rates will likely increase after hitting a parked car. Even if there was no claim made for damages, if you are found to be considered a high-risk driver by an insurer, your rates will increase. When assessing your insurance package, your insurers will receive your driving records, which the insurance company may access quickly in today’s age.
Call a CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm Car Accident Attorney
If you were involved in an auto accident, contacting a car accident attorney is vital. Contacting a car accident lawyer becomes increasingly important if you’ve hit a parked car and left the scene because you may face criminal charges, including fines and/or prison time.
Ali Awad, ‘the CEO Lawyer’, is an experienced car accident attorney dedicated to fighting for the rights of Georgia citizens. With a quickly growing firm that holds over a 99% track record, you can rest assured that the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm will bring you the best possible outcomes for your case. Call the CEO Lawyer and his team of attorneys at (470) 323-8779 or online to receive your free evaluation.
