Here’s what you should do if you accidentally damage someone’s vehicle in a car park – including what details to leave in a note
It's something we've all been guilty of or victim to when out shopping
ACCIDENTS happen - especially in supermarket and shopping centre narrow car parks when you're rushing to grab the last turkey and THE toy of the year for Christmas.
If you do end up scraping a parked car or causing a dent when you open the door, the important thing is to remain calm.
Obviously, don't just pretend it didn't happen and hope no one notices as you drive away. That is a criminal offence. Frantically trying to rub a scratch off won't work either.
The best thing to do is take pictures of all the damage caused to both cars. Take close-ups and wide shots that include the number plates of the vehicles involved.
If you don't have a smartphone to hand to take photos, look around for any witnesses - or even ask if they'd be kind enough to take pictures to message over to you.
Alternatively, check if there is any CCTV available from the car park management, so there is some visual evidence for the insurance companies.
In any case, always take note of the make, model, colour and registration plate of the damaged car in addition to pictures.
You also need to leave your details for the car owner to contact you on - this includes your full name, address and best contact phone numbers.
Write down how the damage was caused - but keep it simple, such as you were trying to reverse into the parking spot and misjudged the space.
Don't forget to note the time and date - and an apology wouldn't go amiss too!
You can include the name of your insurance company and your policy number - however, this can be done when the owner gets in touch.
Place the note carefully and securely underneath a windscreen wiper so that it doesn't blow away and will be noticed by the owner.
MORE FROM MOTORS
It's worth handing a copy of the note to the shopping store or car park security, in case the owner of the vehicle approaches them for CCTV evidence - or even if it's raining or snowing and the note will get ruined.
They may also be able to announce the damaged car's registration plate over a loudspeaker if it's a store car park in hope to find the owner.
Call your insurance company there and then - you must report any accident even if you decide to settle costs with the other car owner.