A driver who hits and damages a parked car or unattended vehicle must take reasonable steps to contact the owner. Generally, this requires writing a note with complete contact information and leaving it under the damaged vehicle’s windshield wiper. Drivers should also note the license plate number of the vehicle they hit and file an incident report with the police. However, they do not have to wait around for hours, hoping the owner will return.
Under Illinois law, drivers are specifically required to leave a note and report the incident to the police, in writing. This equally applies when a driver hits a fence, wall, tree, or other property. Drivers should also contact their insurance company, even though it may be tempting not to. Insurance companies can deny claims for damage to the insured driver’s vehicle based on the failure to report. Furthermore, drivers who fail to report are more likely to face lawsuits. Finally, their insurance companies may attempt to disclaim all liability for damages.