Does Insurance Cover Hit and Run Parked Car?

A car accident of any kind can be extremely stressful, especially for someone who may be accused of committing a hit and run accident in Ohio. Below, we answer a few questions tied to if insurance covers hit and run parked car accidents and what to do if a hit and run occurs.

For more information on what to do if you are accused of a crime in Columbus Ohio, see our post here.

What Should I Do if Someone Hits My Parked Car?

Following a parked car accident, there are a few steps that drivers can take – both as the alleged driver who hit the parked car and as the owner of the parked car.

1. Do not leave the scene of the accident. Leaving the scene of an accident will typically count as a first-degree misdemeanor which can result in up to 180 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, and other penalties like a class 5 license suspension for up to 3 years.
2. Get in touch with the police and seek medical attention if anyone is hurt. Documentation from the accident, both in the form of an official accident report and medical documentation, can be extremely useful evidence later on.
3. If it is safe to do so, gather as much evidence of the accident scene as possible. This can include taking photos of both vehicles, exchanging contact information with other vehicle owners, and even collecting contact information for any eyewitnesses.
4. Get in contact with a Columbus hit and run defense attorney. With a working knowledge of the laws surrounding these particular accidents, they can help you throughout the process following the accident.

Keep in mind that under Chapter 4549 of the Ohio Revised Code, all drivers are required to stop at a safe place extremely close to the site of the accident.

If the hit car does not have anyone inside, the offending driver is required to “securely attach” their contact information on the parked car such as:

• Name and address
• Name and address of the owner of the vehicle if it isn’t you
• Registration number of the vehicle
• Insurance information

For driver’s facing hit and run charges of a parked car, it can be prudent to consult with a Columbus Ohio traffic defense attorney as the penalties for a hit and run can be severe.

Does Insurance Cover Hit and Run Parked Cars?

Ohio is an at-fault state, meaning that the individual who is found to be responsible for a car accident or their insurance company will be held liable for covering relevant damages and losses.

In Ohio, according to Section 4509.51 of the Ohio Revised Code, drivers are required to have a liability insurance policy on their vehicle with a minimum of:

• $25,000 for property damage per accident
• $25,000 for personal injury or death per person “in any one accident”
• $50,000 for personal injury or death of 2 or more people per accident

If an insurance company will cover a hit and run accident, it typically will not exceed the insurance coverage of the at-fault party.

What is the Claim Process for Hit and Run Damage?

Following a hit and run accident, an insurance claim will likely be filed by the person who owns the damaged vehicle. If the driver responsible for the damage is known, their insurance company will be contacted and a traffic citation issued much like any other accident.  An insurance adjuster will then look into the accident and any evidence that was provided to determine liability and the amount of liability.

What do I do if I’m Accused of a Hit and Run?

If you are accused of a hit and run accident with a parked car in central Ohio, reach out to a Columbus Ohio traffic attorney as soon as possible.

Defending yourself against accusations requires you and your attorney to review and challenge the evidence of the case including if you were the driver at the time of the collision and if you fled the scene knowing you hit another car.  Be careful not to make any admissions that may later be used against you.

There are a number of serious penalties you face if you are charged with leaving the scene of an accident including jail time, high fines, a mandatory license suspension, and restitution for damages.

Consult With a Hit and Run Defense Attorney

Following a hit and run accident, it is in your best interest to connect with a Columbus hit and run attorney.

Even if you bump or tap a parked car in a parking lot, you could potentially be facing 6 months of jail time should you leave the scene of the accident. If you are facing charges of a hit and run in Columbus Ohio, connect with The Maher Law Firm today.

Attorney Colin Maher has over 10 years of experience providing clients with criminal and traffic defense representation in Columbus Ohio. Feel free to contact him at 614-205-2208 or online for a free and confidential phone consultation today.