View Full Version : Bumped a car when leaving a parking spot, left, then called the store
NotorK
Jan 7, 2012, 08:05 AM
I was leaving a drugstore yesterday and was pulling out of my parking spot. I thought I had cleared the car next to me but I bumped into something and the car moved. I pulled back into my spot and got out, realizing the car had one of this metal lift things on the back, and it was down. I had ran into the corner of that. I didn't see any damage on my car or the lift, so I pulled out and went on my way. After I left, I realized that I should have left a note, even though there wasn't damage to his car. I got back to work and realized that the lift had punctured my bumper. I called my insurance company and reported it and then called the store back and left my name and number with the manager and told them what happened too in case someone came back.
I am worried that I have perpetrated a hit and run. I live in Indiana and know the laws for this, but I was wondering since I called the store back and left my information, if that counts, since I didn't leave a note on the car.
JudyKayTee
Jan 7, 2012, 08:36 AM
What would I do? I'd ask the Police - in person. It does not appear that leaving and then calling satisfies the law.
I'm a liability investigator. Just so I've got this right you didn't notify anyone until you noticed you had damage to your car. At that point you notified your insurance company. You then reported the accident to the store.
Your insurance company is not requiring ID on the other vehicle and/or a Police Report in order to process the claim?
In NY that's not hit and run, it's leaving the scene of an accident.
Here is the section of Indiana law ("IC 9-26-1-8 - failure of driver to fulfill duties following collisions with unattended vehicles or other property; classification of violations") http://www.deadlyroads.com/laws/indiana-hit-and-run-laws.shtml
NotorK
Jan 7, 2012, 08:41 AM
Yes, that is right. I really just wasn't thinking, to be honest. I was on my lunch hour and trying to get back to work. If I had seen any damage to their vehicle, I would have waited till they came out of the store, but I left, then realized how stupid that was later. I feel horrible now about it now and just want to do the right thing. My insurance did not ask for ID on the other vehicle. I may not even submit the claim at this point.
NotorK
Jan 7, 2012, 08:59 AM
I phoned the police department here and explained. They were very helpful and understanding. Thanks for your advice.
JudyKayTee
Jan 7, 2012, 09:36 AM
Hope it works out - sounds like it will.
NotorK
Jan 7, 2012, 10:21 AM
Thanks again.