What Happens if You Crash into a Parked Car in Florida?

Accidents happen—even when no one is around. If you’ve accidentally hit a parked car in Florida, you may be feeling anxious or unsure about what to do next. Do you have to report it? What if you can’t find the owner? Will your insurance rates go up?

At Stein Law, we understand how confusing and stressful these situations can be. Here’s what you need to know about your legal responsibilities and options after hitting a parked car in Florida.

Florida Law: Your Legal Obligations

Under Florida Statute §316.063, if you hit a parked or unattended vehicle, you are legally required to take specific steps, including:

• Stop immediately at the scene.

• Attempt to locate the owner of the vehicle.

• If the owner cannot be found, leave a written note in a visible location on the car that includes:

  • Your name

  • Address

  • Contact information

  • A brief description of the accident

• Notify local law enforcement to report the accident, especially if there’s significant damage.

Leaving the scene without fulfilling these steps is considered a hit-and-run, which can result in criminal charges, fines, and license suspension—even if the other vehicle was unoccupied.

Will Insurance Cover the Damage?

If you’re at fault for the accident, your property damage liability insurance (which is required in Florida) should cover the cost of repairs to the other vehicle.

You may also need to use your collision coverage to pay for damage to your own vehicle—if you have that policy included.

Important insurance tips:

• Report the accident to your insurer promptly.

• Provide all necessary documentation, including photos, the police report (if applicable), and the written note left at the scene.

• Be honest in your account—insurance fraud or failure to report could result in claim denial.

What Happens If You Leave Without Reporting the Accident?

Leaving without notifying the owner or police could result in:

• A criminal charge for leaving the scene of an accident (a second-degree misdemeanor in most cases).

• Fines, points on your license, and possible license suspension.

• Civil liability for damages if the owner sues you.

Always do the right thing and follow the legal steps, even if the damage seems minor.

What If Someone Crashed Into Your Parked Car?

If your parked car was hit and the driver left the scene:

• Call the police immediately to file a report.

• Look for any note or contact information left on your vehicle.

• Check nearby security cameras (from homes, businesses, or doorbell cams).

• Notify your insurance company. If the at-fault driver can’t be found, you may need to use your uninsured motorist or collision coverage.

Can You Be Sued for Hitting a Parked Car?

Yes. If you caused significant damage and failed to leave a note or report the accident, the vehicle owner may pursue a civil lawsuit against you for property damage. However, if you follow all legal procedures and your insurance covers the damage, a lawsuit is unlikely.

What to Do Immediately After the Crash

1. Take photos of both vehicles and the surrounding area.

2. Note the time, date, and location of the accident.

3. Leave a note with your information if the owner isn’t present.

4. Call the police if the damage is substantial or you’re unsure how to proceed.

5. Notify your insurance company and provide complete documentation.

Need Legal Help? Contact Stein Law

If you’re facing legal consequences after hitting a parked car—or your own car was damaged in a hit-and-run—Stein Law is here to help. We’ll review your situation, explain your rights, and fight to protect your driving record and finances.

Call 833-691-5663 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Don’t let a parking accident turn into a legal mess—let us help you navigate your options with confidence.