Accidents in parking lots are more common than many drivers realize, and they often create confusion about who is at fault and how insurance applies. While most of these incidents occur at low speeds, injuries are less frequent, but property damage can still be significant. Understanding how auto insurance responds helps New Jersey drivers know what to expect after a fender bender in a parking lot.
Liability Coverage and Determining Fault
The most important factor in parking lot accidents is determining fault. If you hit another vehicle, your liability coverage through Rock Insurance Services, serving the auto insurance needs of Medford, NJ, and the entire Tri-State area, is designed to pay for the other driver’s repairs. This same coverage applies if you accidentally strike a pedestrian or damage property, such as a light post.
Collision Coverage for Your Own Vehicle
Even when another driver is clearly at fault, their insurance may not always be cooperative or sufficient. Collision coverage on your own policy ensures that your vehicle can be repaired regardless of fault. You’ll pay the deductible, and your insurer may pursue reimbursement from the other driver later.
Uninsured Motorist Situations
Parking lot accidents sometimes involve drivers who lack insurance or who leave the scene without providing information. In these cases, uninsured motorist coverage steps in. It can help pay for repairs or medical bills that would otherwise come directly out of your pocket. This part of a policy is especially valuable in hit-and-run scenarios, which unfortunately happen quite often in parking lots.
Parking lot collisions may seem minor, but the financial impact can add up quickly. Reviewing your auto insurance with Rock Insurance Services, serving the auto insurance needs of Medford, NJ, and the entire Tri-State area, ensures you have the right mix of liability, collision, and uninsured motorist coverage to handle these everyday risks.