What To Do If Someone Hits Your Parked Car in Conway, SC? 2024

Parked cars can also be found on the street, in parking lots, or in driveways. People frequently don’t pay as much attention when driving in parking lots as they would when on the road. They can also swipe cars that are parked on the road if they are not paying sufficient attention. Discovering your car has been hit can leave you wondering what to do if someone hits your parked car in Conway, SC. In such situations, consulting a car accident lawyer can be crucial for understanding your rights and options.

Being aware of the next steps can make all the difference in the outcome of the accident.

Evaluate the Damage and Collect Supporting Documentation.

Make sure you are safe first. Move your car to a safer place if it’s in a dangerous position, such as being parallel parked in a high traffic area. After you’re safe, check the damage to your vehicle. Take close-up pictures of the impacted areas, making sure to capture the whole scene from different perspectives.

Take pictures of any leftovers or evidence from the other vehicle. Note the time and date, the incident’s location, and any possible witnesses or security cameras that might have recorded the action.

Speak With the Police

It is against the law for a driver in South Carolina to flee the scene of an accident, and they risk facing harsh consequences. As a result, it is imperative that you notify the police of the incident as soon as you can. Give them all the information you’ve gathered, including pictures, your location, and any witness details, when you give them a call. The police may send an officer to the scene based on the extent of the damage. They might also request that you report something to the local police department.

Speak With Eyewitnesses and Examine Security Video

Get in touch with any witnesses you have identified so you can get their version of events. Their testimony may prove useful in identifying the guilty party. They may also offer proof in support of a legal claim or insurance claim. Request access to the security camera footage from the property owners if there are any nearby ones. This might make it easier to identify the driver of the other car.

Inform Your Insurance Provider

It is imperative that you notify your insurance company of the incident even if you do not have the other driver’s details. They will walk you through the steps of their unique claims procedure. Additionally, they will let you know if you have any coverage for hit-and-run incidents. Generally speaking, uninsured motorist coverage can assist with paying for auto repairs. However, the terms and deductibles of your policy will apply to this.

Contact an Attorney

A hit-and-run is a criminal offense in South Carolina. Should the guilty party be found, they might be prosecuted and held liable for the harm done to your car. You have the right to file a claim against the other driver if they are identified by the police or by your own investigation.

You may be able to recoup the cost of the repairs as well as any associated costs in this way. Seek legal counsel from a car accident lawyer before deciding whether to file a claim. They are able to assist you in navigating the legal system’s complexities. You can also get legal advice on what to do in your particular circumstance.

Fix Your Car

You can start fixing your car once you’ve taken the required actions to report the incident and make an insurance claim with your provider. Your insurance policy may require you to pay a deductible before the repairs are reimbursed. Selecting a trustworthy repair shop is essential to guarantee high-quality work and prevent additional issues.

Next Steps

Once you have done the immediate necessary steps, you can take action to help prevent hit and runs in the future. Even though you have no control over what other people do, you can take precautions to keep your car safe.

If you want to have recorded footage while your car is parked, think about getting a dash camera or parking in well-lit, busy areas that have surveillance. By taking preventative measures, you can help discourage potential offenders and provide important evidence in case the incident happens again.

FAQs

How Long Do You Have to Report a Hit and Run in South Carolina?

In the state of South Carolina, drivers who are involved in a hit and run collision are required to promptly report the incident to law enforcement. Those who fail to comply may face criminal prosecution as a consequence. When it comes to complying with legal standards and making sure that all of the relevant information is documented, prompt reporting is absolutely necessary.

When You Hit a Parked Car and Can’t Find the Owner, What Should You Do?

If you hit a parked car and are unable to reach the owner, leave a note with your contact information and a brief explanation of the accident on the damaged vehicle. Additionally, it is recommended that the incident be reported to the local police in order to establish accurate documentation and avoid potential legal difficulties.

What Is the Charge for a Hit and Run in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, the charge for a hit and run varies according to the severity of the accident. If it just involves property damage, it is usually classified as a misdemeanor, which can result in fines and license suspension. If there are injuries or fatalities, the charges can be upgraded to felonies, which carry serious penalties, including imprisonment.

Who Is Responsible If You Hit an Illegally Parked Car in South Carolina?

Even if a vehicle is parked illegally, the driver who collides with it is typically the one who is accountable for the damage. Regardless of whether or not the other vehicle is parked, the driver is responsible for exercising the necessary caution in order to avoid crashes. In addition, the owner of the car that was parked unlawfully may be subject to fines or other penalties for the parking offense.

Contact Axelrod & Associates, P.A.

If your car has been hit in a hit-and-run, you may have options for compensation. An attorney at Axelrod & Associates, P.A. can go over the details with you and inform you of your options. Contact us today for more information.