What must you do if you hit a parked car?

If you hit a parked car, it is essential to leave a note with your contact information or report the incident to the authorities because this is the legal and ethical approach to handling an accident. California law requires that you provide your contact details to the owner of the damaged vehicle or report the incident to law enforcement if you cannot locate them. Leaving a note ensures that the vehicle owner can reach out to you for any potential damages or insurance claims, demonstrating responsibility and accountability.

In cases where an accident occurs, even if no visible damage seems apparent, fulfilling your legal obligations helps prevent any potential disputes or legal issues that could arise later. Reporting the incident to the authorities is particularly important in more serious situations, such as if there is significant damage, injuries, or property loss involved.

Handling the situation properly, as outlined, helps maintain a safe and trustworthy road environment and complies with traffic laws designed to protect all road users.