Am I at fault for hitting an illegally parked vehicle?
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Am I at fault for hitting an illegally parked vehicle?
I backed into a vehicle parked in a red zone in front of a fire hydrant. My
insurance had lapsed the night before so they will not cover it. My insurer has sent me a bill for $7000. Do I have to pay this?
Asked on September 20, 2016 under Accident Law, California
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
Although the car was illegally parked, you are still liable for hitting a parked car.
Since your insurance had lapsed, you are responsible for paying $7000 property damage.
If you can't afford to pay it, you might want to consider filing bankruptcy. It would be premature to file bankruptcy until there is a court judgment against you.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is straight liquidation which will eliminate that debt.
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