Car Park Accidents: Facing The Facts
Parking is part and parcel of driving, but there are can’t be many of us who can say we actually look forward to finding a spot in a crowded supermarket car park or tight underground car park. Even for the most confident driver, the potential for a nasty dunt or shunt – whether with a stationary obstacle (pillar, barrier, shopping trolley etc) or with another car – is a danger to be aware of.
Would you believe that around a whopping 20% of all car insurance claims are a result of car park prangs? It’s proof that it’s a scenario not to be taken lightly. So, knowing what to do if an accident does happen and where you stand as far as insurance liability is concerned is important.
That’s particularly the case as ‘doing a runner’ incidents in car parks are on the increase. That’s when a driver clips or hits another car in a car park and fails to leave their details or report the incident.
Sadly, it seems that more and more people think they can just get away with it. And many of those on the receiving end are reluctant to put in a claim and jeopardise their No Claims bonus. But imagine how the other driver feels when they return to their car and discover the damage.
More importantly, not reporting a collision with another car or leaving false information is technically illegal – if you’re caught on CCTV doing so (a very real possibility in a security-protected car park), you could be on the receiving end of criminal charges. It’s just not worth it. However, there are a few simple things you can do to reduce the chance of a bash.