My Car Has Significant Damage from a Parking Lot Accident; Am I Covered?

Parking lot accidents are not uncommon. In fact, they are one of the most common types of claims for fender benders. However, they often occur on private property and, in some situations that can change who is responsible and whether or not your auto insurance will cover the costs. Every situation is different, but in many cases your car insurance will cover the costs associated with these accidents.

Will Car Insurance Cover Your Parking Lot Accident?

Whether or not auto insurance provides this protection generally comes down to the type of insurance you have. If you have only liability insurance and you are responsible for the accident, the plan is unlikely to provide you with any protection. If you are responsible and have collision insurance, on the other hand, you will gain this type of protection (in most cases).

In situations where you are not at fault, such as another car or truck causing the damage to your vehicle, that driver’s insurance becomes the responsible party in most states. For this reason, you’ll need to obtain the details about the other driver’s insurance. Be sure to see their insurance card, get their identification information, and, in many cases, file a police report.

What happens when the accident occurs and no one is around? Unfortunately, these situations happen often. Your first step is to file a police report to make your claim. You should then work with your auto insurance provider who will help you to determine if anyone can be held responsible. For example, there may be video cameras that can be used to help identify the person who caused the accident.

Keep in mind that fault is determined in a parking lot in much the same way as it is on the road. Here are a few common rules for parking lots:

• Stop signs are not required throughout them, but it is expected that drivers will make a full stop prior to entering a pathway from a turn.
• Pedestrians always have the right of way.
• The person entering or exiting a space or aisle first is generally given the right of way.
• Directional signs can provide information about who has the right of way as well.

The police will help in identifying who is at fault in most cases. However, it is up to you and your auto insurance provider to file the claims associated with your damages.