After a trip to the local market to pick up groceries, you hop in the car. You turn the ignition on and proceed to back out of the parking space. Out of nowhere, you’re sideswiped by a car. Car insurance providers say this unfortunate scenario is all too common. Besides keeping your cool, there are several ways to handle these types of accidents, starting with the following tips.

How to Handle an Accident in a Parking Lot

1. Check for Injuries

Make sure no one was injured. This includes the other driver, passengers, and nearby pedestrians. If there are injuries, call 911 for medical assistance. In the meantime, if you or someone else is injured, try to remain still until emergency responders arrive. 

2. Contact the Police

Although the parking lot accident may be minor, it’s still best to call the police. An official report from law enforcement can be helpful when submitting your car insurance claim. Keep in mind that some police officers might not feel the need to respond if no one was injured. Ask for a record of you calling that shows you at least made an attempt to request assistance. 

3. Gather Insurance & Personal Information

Be sure to get the other person’s insurance information, such as the carrier’s name, phone number, and their membership number. In addition, ask for their driver’s license and vehicle tag numbers and a personal phone number. If there were witnesses, ask if they’d be willing to provide you with their phone numbers. 

4. Take Pictures

Use your mobile phone to take pictures of the damage to all vehicles involved in the parking lot accident. If any surrounding structures were affected, take pictures of the damages too. It may also be helpful to make a video recording as well. Some car insurance company adjusters will request both still pictures and video to help assess recovery costs. 

5. Contact Your Insurance Provider

Let your car insurance carrier know right away about the accident—regardless of how minor the damage is. If you fail to report the accident, the other driver can still sue you. Furthermore, your insurance provider may deny your claim.

6. Remain Calm

After a parking lot accident, the situation can get tense. It’s important for everyone to remain calm to avoid dangerous road rage incidents. Be cordial with the other person involved, but never admit fault. Let the insurance companies make this determination. 

Aaron Insurance Agency in Dothan, AL, understands how jarring a parking lot accident can be. The locally owned firm helps drivers be prepared for the unexpected by providing affordable and reliable car insurance. As an independent agency, they’re able to shop for the best rates from some of the nation’s leading carriers. If you’re in the market for new coverage, including SR-22, call (334) 712-0777 or go online to request a free, no-obligation insurance quote.