What to Do If Someone Hits My Parked Car in or Around Hollywood, Fl?

Our Hollywood personal injury lawyers understand the frustration and uncertainty that you feel when you walk out of a public building in South Florida only to find your parked car damaged, especially if the offending driver did not leave their contact and insurance information.

If this has happened to you, you’re most likely asking “What to do if someone hits my parked car?”

Whether you’re dealing with a hit-and-run or a driver who stayed on the scene following this type of car accident, you should know your rights and how to protect yourself. For residents of Hollywood, FL and anywhere in the state, understanding state laws, insurance processes, and your legal options can make all the difference in resolving the issue smoothly. This comprehensive guide, from an experienced Florida car accident lawyer, explains everything you need to know if someone hits your parked car.

Key Steps to Take

Upon discovering that someone hit your parked car, your first reaction might be anger or panic. Take a deep breath and follow these immediate steps:

1. Document the Damage

Begin by assessing and documenting the damage. Take clear photographs of your car from multiple angles, focusing on the affected areas. Include close-ups of dents, scratches, and any other visible damage. If there are skid marks, debris, or other signs of the accident, photograph those, too. You will need this evidence for car insurance purposes.

2. Check for a Note or Witness Information

If the responsible driver left a note, it might include their name, phone number, and insurance details. Keep the note in a safe place. If there’s no note, look around for witnesses. Bystanders or nearby business employees may have seen the accident and can provide information about the vehicle or driver.

3. Get an Official Police Report

Even if the damage seems minor, report the incident to law enforcement. Florida law requires a report from law enforcement for accidents involving property damage exceeding $500. The police will document the car accident, which provides supporting evidence when filing a car accident claim. If it’s a hit-and-run, the police will also start an investigation to locate the driver.

4. Gather Evidence

Collect any available evidence, including security camera footage from businesses or homes near the scene, which may have captured the incident. If you spoke to witnesses, get their contact information and jot down their accounts of what happened.

5. Notify Your Insurance Provider

Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all the details you’ve collected, including the police report, photos, and any witness statements.

Understanding the Florida Statute of Limitations in Personal Injury Claims

If you need to file a legal claim for damages, be aware of Florida’s statute of limitations. According to Florida Statutes Section 95.11, you have four years from the date of the accident to file a property damage lawsuit. However, if the accident caused serious injuries, you may only have two years, per Florida’s personal injury law.

Failing to act within this time frame means you could lose your right to seek compensation. While insurance claims don’t always require legal representation, it’s in your best interest to seek the assistance of a Florida car accident lawyer to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation under the law.

A Special Note on Hit-and-Run Cases from a Car Accident Lawyer

Florida law imposes serious penalties on drivers who flee the scene. Law enforcement may work to identify the driver if you file a report promptly, so don’t delay in contacting the police.

Florida’s Negligence Laws

When dealing with parking accidents, you must prove negligence; however, determining fault can get complicated. Florida follows a pure comparative negligence rule under Florida Statutes Section 768.81. In car accident cases, the law divides fault among all parties based on their percentage of responsibility.

For example:

• If the driver who hit your parked car is 100% at fault, they (or their insurance) should cover all the damages.
• If the parking situation contributed to the accident (e.g., your car was improperly parked), you might share some responsibility. If you’re 30% at fault, you can only recover 70% of the damages.

A Car Accident Attorney Explains Insurance Considerations

1. Collision Coverage

If the responsible driver can’t be identified, or they don’t have adequate insurance, your own collision coverage can help pay for repairs to your vehicle. However, you’ll need to pay your deductible.

2. Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage

Florida doesn’t require drivers to carry UM coverage, but if you’ve added this to your policy, it can protect you in hit-and-run scenarios or when the other driver is uninsured. UM coverage pays for your damages when the at-fault party can’t.

3. Filing a Claim

When filing a claim, provide all the documentation you’ve gathered, including:

• Police report
• Photographs of the damage
• Witness statements (if any)
• Driver’s insurance details (if available)

4. Dealing With Difficult Insurance Companies

If the other driver’s insurance company disputes your claim or offers an inadequate settlement, consult personal injury lawyers to advocate on your behalf. Insurance companies prioritize their interests, not yours. After a car accident in Florida, seek the legal guidance of an experienced personal injury law firm.

Potential Obstacles on Your Legal Journey

Sometimes, insurance alone may not resolve the situation, especially if:

• The at-fault driver refuses to cooperate.
• Insurance coverage is insufficient to cover the full extent of the damages.
• Liability is disputed.

Hiring a personal injury attorney can assist you in these types of cases by:

• Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.
• Filing a lawsuit within the statute of limitations if they cannot reach a fair settlement.
• Pursuing compensation not just for damage but also any lost wages or out-of-pocket medical bills and other expenses related to the accident.

For 55 years, Cohen and Cohen Law, has been helping Florida residents protect their rights after car accidents, including incidents involving parked vehicles. Our results-oriented and compassionate approach fully supports you every step of the way.

Preventative Measures

While you can’t control other drivers, you can reduce the likelihood of your parked car being hit.

1. Choose Safe Parking Spots
   • Avoid tight spaces or areas near heavy traffic.
   • Use well-lit or clearly marked parking spaces whenever possible.
2. Use Dash Cameras
   • Installing a dash camera with parking mode can capture video evidence if your car is hit while unattended.
3. Be Mindful of Curbside Parking Rules
   • Avoid double parking or parking too close to driveways and intersections.
4. Add Protective Accessories
   • Use bumper guards or corner guards to minimize damage from minor impacts.
5. Pay Attention to Local Ordinances
   • Follow all parking rules in your area to avoid tickets or other issues that can complicate insurance claims.

Frequently Asked Questions About What to Do If Someone Hits Your Parked Car

What should I do immediately after discovering my parked car has been hit?

Start by documenting the damage to your vehicle with photos from multiple angles. If the other driver is still present, exchange contact and insurance information. If they’ve left the scene, check for a note with their details. If no note exists, call the police to file a report. This documentation will help car accident victims when filing an insurance claim.

Can I recover compensation if someone else hits my parked car?

Yes, you may be able to recover compensation for the cost of repairs. If you’ve suffered injuries because you were near the vehicle during the accident, you might also seek medical treatment or other associated costs. Personal injury protection (PIP) coverage can help address expenses like medical bills or lost income if you’re hurt.

What costs can personal injury protection (PIP) cover in this situation?

PIP insurance typically covers medical treatment for injuries, lost income if you cannot work, and even emotional trauma caused by the accident. However, it varies by policy and state, so review your coverage or consult with your insurance company for details.

Who is responsible for covering expensive medical bills if I was injured near my car during the accident?

If the other driver is at fault, their liability insurance should cover your medical expenses. If they’re uninsured, you may use your uninsured motorist coverage or PIP to cover the cost of medical treatment. It’s important to document your injuries and seek medical attention promptly.

What are the most common car accident injuries in a parked car accident scenario?

Common injuries might include whiplash, back pain, or bruising if you were in or near the car when it was hit. However, every situation is different. If you experience physical pain after the accident, consult a doctor to receive the necessary medical care.

Can I pursue compensation for emotional trauma after a parked car accident?

Personal injury claims can address emotional trauma, such as anxiety or stress resulting from the accident. While it may be harder to quantify than physical pain, medical records or therapy notes help support such claims in personal injury cases.

How can I prevent financial loss if this type of accident happens again?

To protect yourself, get adequate insurance coverage, including personal injury protection and uninsured motorist coverage. Keep emergency savings to handle unexpected costs, like expensive medical bills or repairs. Always park in well-lit, secure areas to minimize the risk.

Do I need a Hollywood, FL personal injury law firm?

If you’ve been injured or incurred significant costs after someone hit your parked car, consulting  a personal injury law firm is in your best interests. A seasoned legal team can  gather crucial evidence, like witness statements, police reports, and medical records, to build a strong case. If you’re considering filing a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, or emotional trauma, a knowledgeable law firm can guide you through the legal processes.

At Cohen & Cohen Law, our personal injury attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you. We also offer a free initial consultation, allowing you to discuss your case and understand your options without any upfront cost.

Cohen & Cohen Law Provides the Experience You Need and the Representation You Can Trust in Your Car Accident Lawsuit or Claim

Have you been searching online for a “Hollywood, FL car accident lawyer,” a “Florida car accident lawyer,” or a “Hollywood, FL personal injury attorney?”

At Cohen and Cohen Law in Hollywood, FL, we’ve spent 55 years helping personal injury victims recover from accidents, big or small. We pride ourselves on accessible, compassionate advocacy. Contact us at 800-33COHEN800-33COHEN or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.

Copyright © 2025. Cohen and Cohen Law. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

Cohen and Cohen Law
4000 Hollywood Blvd penthouse 705s
Hollywood, FL 33021
800-33COHEN800-33COHEN
https://www.cohenandcohenlaw.com