Hit a Parked Car? Here’s What Missouri Law Requires You to Do

1. Stop Immediately—It’s the Law

Under Missouri law, drivers involved in any accident, including those with a parked car, must stop immediately at the scene. Driving away without taking responsibility constitutes hit-and-run, a criminal offense (Missouri Revised Statutes §304.010).

Failing to stop can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the severity of the damage and whether anyone was injured.

2. Attempt to Locate the Owner

Missouri law requires you to reasonably find the vehicle’s owner before leaving the scene. This includes checking nearby businesses, asking people in the area, or waiting a reasonable amount of time for the owner to return.

If you find the owner, exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle registration details just as you would in a regular accident (Missouri Revised Statutes §303.040).

3. Leave a Note If the Owner Is Not Found

If you cannot locate the owner, Missouri law requires you to leave a written notice in a conspicuous place on the vehicle, such as under the windshield wiper. Your note should include:

• Your name
• Your phone number
• Your address
• Your vehicle registration number

Failing to provide this information is considered leaving the scene of an accident, and it can result in legal penalties (Missouri Revised Statutes §304.010).

4. Report the Accident to the Police (When Required)

In Missouri, you must report an accident to law enforcement if:

• Property damage exceeds $500
• There are injuries or fatalities
• The vehicle is blocking traffic or poses a danger

If these conditions apply, call 911 or the local police department. If you fail to report an accident when required, you may face misdemeanor charges (Missouri Revised Statutes §304.070).

Even if reporting isn’t legally required, filing a police report can protect you from potential disputes or fraudulent claims.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company

Even if the damage is minor, reporting the incident to your insurance company is usually the best action. Depending on your coverage, your insurance may pay for the damage to the other vehicle under your liability policy, while collision coverage may help with damage to your car.

Failure to report the accident to your insurer can result in denied claims if the other driver later files a complaint (Missouri Department of Insurance).

Steps to Take Immediately After Hitting a Parked Car

• Stop immediately—never leave the scene.
• Check for the owner and exchange information.
• Leave a note if the owner isn’t found.
• Take photos of the damage, the license plate, and surroundings.
• Report the accident if required.
• Contact your insurance provider to avoid future disputes.

Taking responsibility immediately can prevent legal trouble, increased insurance rates, and unnecessary stress.

What If Someone Hits Your Parked Car?

If your parked vehicle was hit and the other driver did not leave a note, follow these steps:

• Check for a note—they should have left their contact details if the driver was responsible.
• Look for surveillance cameras—nearby businesses or homes may have captured the accident.
• File a police report—this can help track the driver and assist with insurance claims.
• Contact your insurance company—it may cover repairs if you have uninsured motorist or collision coverage.

If the at-fault driver is found, you may have legal options to recover damages through their insurance or by filing a personal injury claim if injuries occurred.

Follow Missouri Law to Avoid Trouble

Hitting a parked car in Missouri isn’t just an accident—it’s a legal responsibility. Taking the right steps—stopping, attempting to locate the owner, leaving a note, and reporting when necessary—can protect you from serious consequences.