Parked Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Manchester, NH 

Shocking Truths About Parked Vehicle Accidents in Manchester, NH 

Picture this: You’re heading back to your car after running errands at the Mall of New Hampshire. You’ve got your hands full, thinking about dinner plans, and then you see it—a dent in your car door. No note. No clue who did it. Just that sinking feeling in your stomach. 

Car accidents parked in are, at the least, frustrating and really inconvenient. It could be a person clipping your car when they are coming out of a tight spot or even a full-on hit-and-run. You are left to pick up the pieces, and trust us, we get it. It's overwhelming trying to figure out what to do next, especially if the party responsible is not around. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, we’re here to take that weight off your shoulders. Our experienced New Hampshire car accident attorneys know how tough these situations can be, and we are ready to guide you through the process with care and confidence. 

Why Are Parked Vehicle Accidents So Common in Manchester, NH? 

You may think your car is safe when parked, but the truth is that accidents happen all the time—especially in a bustling city like Manchester. So, what's going on? Why is your parked car at risk? Let's break it down: 

• Distractions: Drivers texting, eating, or fumbling with GPS can easily miss a parked car in their blind spot. In 2020 alone, distracted driving accounted for upwards of 30% of all crashes in the state. 
• Tight Spaces: Ever parked downtown near Elm Street in Manchester? Forget about it- those spaces feel ridiculously tight. It's no wonder one runs into a parked automobile. 
• Slippery Conditions: Manchester Winters bring snow and ice, that creates a real skating rink out of some parking lots. Even the safest driver in town can slip up into a stationary vehicle. 
• Inexperience: Not everyone's a pro at parallel parking. New or nervous drivers might misjudge their angles and scrape your bumper. 

Sound familiar? It's frustrating, but understanding why these accidents happen can make it easier to figure out your next move. 

Your Car Was Hit While Parked in Manchester, NH – Now What? 

So, you've found damage on your car. Now what? The first steps you take can make all the difference. Here's what we recommend: 

1. Take Pictures: Take the best possible photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage, the surrounding area of your car, and debris on the ground. 
2. Find a Note: It is unlikely that people will leave their contact information, but it happens. If there is no note, then do not be concerned. 
3. Speak to Witnesses: There may be someone around who saw what happened. Ask people around if anyone can give you more details. 
4. File a Police Report: In a hit-and-run, immediately call Manchester Police Department. This becomes important when later filing an insurance claim. 
5. Call Insurance Company: Update them about this incident and give them the mandatory information for creating a claim. Seek a lawyer: If the opponent is not communicating or the opponent is a notorious insurance opponent too, seek consultation with a good lawyer. 

It's natural to feel overwhelmed, but acting right away puts you in the best position to get things resolved. 

Who’s Really to Blame for Parked Vehicle Accidents in Manchester, NH? 

In most cases, the moving driver is at fault when they hit a parked car. But—and this is important—there are exceptions that insurance companies will look at. 

For example, if your car is sticking out into traffic or is parked illegally, you share the blame. New Hampshire follows a comparative fault system. What does that mean? If you're partially at fault, any compensation you receive could be reduced. 

Let's say your car was hit while parked outside a crowded place on Hanover Street. If it was lawfully parked and the other driver was texting, it is pretty clear who's at fault. If your car was in a no-parking zone, though, things get complicated. Knowing what determines fault is of great importance to your claim's strength. 

The Inside Scoop on Car Insurance for Parked Vehicle Accidents in Manchester, NH 

It is like trying to solve a puzzle after an accident: Who pays for what? What if the other driver does not have insurance? Here is what you need to know: 

• Liability Coverage: This is what pays for damages to other vehicles if you’re at fault. It’s required in New Hampshire, but not everyone follows the rules. 
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If the other driver doesn’t have insurance or flees the scene, your uninsured motorist coverage might step in. 
• Collision Coverage: This can cover the cost of repairs to your car, regardless of who’s at fault. 

Parked vehicle accidents can be especially frustrating. Since there is no identification of the at-fault driver, you may have no choice but to file a claim with your own insurance company. That is where knowledge of your coverage, as well as having competent attorneys, can pay off. 

Proven Tips to Dodge Parked Car Nightmares in Manchester, NH 

You can't govern the actions of other motorists, but you can take a few precautions to safeguard your vehicle: 

• Safe Parking Spots: Whenever possible, park in well-lit spots with less traffic. 
• Park Properly: Be sure your vehicle is within the lines and does not protrude into traffic. 
• Stay Visible: If you're parking in a high-traffic area, engage your hazard lights when entering or exiting. 
• Give Yourself Space: Avoid tight parking spots where other cars are apt to squeeze through. 

It is not a surefire system, but these simple steps can work wonders in ensuring your car remains safe. 

When the Worst Happens: Legal Help for Parked Vehicle Accidents in Manchester, NH 

A parked vehicle accident can be something of a headache that you didn't sign up for. Between claims and insurance and disputes over who was at fault, it's easy to become overwhelmed. We are here. 

We at Horn Wright, LLP, know how to handle such cases with utmost care and precision. Whether it is an uncooperative driver or even in assisting you in negotiating with your insurance company, we will fight for you to get the resolution you deserve. You get back to life; we take care of the rest. 

Take the stress off your plate? Reach out to us today at (603) 716-9415 to schedule a free consultation.