Kerbelo

Damage · Card 02

Parked-car damage and hit-and-run: what to do first

Walking out to a dented door and no note is frustrating. A few quick steps help.

The short version

  1. Take photos before anything is moved, and look for witnesses or cameras.
  2. File a police report where it is expected by your insurer.
  3. Coverage depends on what is on your policy, so ask what applies.

Right away

  • Photograph the damage and the surroundings.
  • Look for cameras on nearby buildings.
  • Leave a note on nearby vehicles asking for witnesses only if safe.

Reporting

Many places expect a police report for a hit-and-run. Ask the local office how to file one. Some insurers ask for the report number during a claim.

Which coverage may apply

Collision, uninsured motorist property damage and other coverages sometimes respond, depending on your state and policy. Your policy and your insurer are the only reliable source.

Afterwards

Keep estimates, receipts and a short note of dates and phone calls.

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