Parking lot accidents are some of the most common types of claims we receive and get questions about.

The situation goes something like this– You finish grocery shopping at the ShopRite of Pearl River, store your groceries safely in the trunk, and then get in your car to head home. After you carefully scan the adjoining spots to make sure you’re in the clear to backup you start to carefully inch out your car. Then, BUMP. You check your rear-view mirror and someone else also backing out hits you. Or you hit a vehicle that was driving down the lane. The good news is that typically these accidents do not cause a lot of damage or any bodily injury.

First, check that you’re physically feeling well, then survey the damage to your vehicle. Then, discuss the situation with the other party and survey their vehicle. You should exchange insurance and contact information and take pictures of the damage. In most situations, the damage is extremely minor or below your deducible if you have collision coverage.

Generally, these types of accidents do not require a police report. However, you should gather contact information from any witnesses on the scene. Finally, call your insurance agent or insurance carrier to submit the claim.

Additionally, do not speculate about who is at fault. If there is no police report the insurance company will determine fault. This encounter is guaranteed to be an inconvenience, but a minor one at that.

Try not to get upset or frustrated with yourself or the other party. The quicker the claim is processed the quicker you can move on.