Pulling into store parking lot, moved to another space when a guy got out of the car next to me and stood next to it. When I approached the store he came up yelling at me about hitting his car - I didn't hit it. I thought he was crazy and he scared me so I just said I didn't know what he was talking about. He asked if I drove (identified my car), I wouldn't admit it since he was scaring me and I really thought he was a random loony. After 1/2 hr. in store I got the security guard to escort me out as I was scared of the crazy guy, he was still there talking on his cell phone, the security guard said he was the store manager. He didn't approach me again and I went to my car and left, but he could have gotten my license #. Can he report to the police as a hit and run? I'm pretty sure I didn't hit him (didn't feel impact) so this is why I didn't exchange info., also I was afraid of him. Would have cooperated w. police if any arrived but they didn't (he didn't say if he called them or not).
2007-03-13 09:09:56 · 6 answers · asked by fjr 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law Enforcement & Police
Police usually don't come out accidents in private parking lots as they are on private property (but they might have had you called if he was screaming and yelling at you, but would not take a report on the accident); you just exchange information and it is civil matter. (Perhaps he was on the phone with the police when you returned with the security guard and they told him the same thing). It would be hard for him to say it was a hit and run when you didn't drive off, you went into the store. If he wanted your information, he had the opportunity to ask it from you in the presence of the security guard (and the security guard can be used as your witness).
To be on the safe side, call your insurance company as soon possible as tell them what happened in case he did get your license plate and tries to file a claim.
If he works for a National Chain, I would also write an online complaint detailing what happened as it is a reflection on the store itself as the yeller was a store manager. If he is this much of a hothead over an alleged parking lot ding and yells a a customer, imagine what a nightmare he would be to work for.
2007-03-13 09:19:49 · answer #1 · answered by bottleblondemama 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Too many times I've heard complaints of "I didn't think I hit the other person" when in fact several witnesses observed differently.
This does not, however, mean you DID hit them.
If the manager called the police and they conducted an investigation, it COULD be considered a hit and run.
Yet, you also seem responsible enough in your question to admit IF you did wrong.
My best suggestion would be to contact the local law enforcement agency in your area to see if, in fact, a police report was filed. If so, ask to speak with the investigating officer to explain your fears of the man at the time. I feel certain the officer will understand.
By YOU making initial contact with the police it should remove any doubt about any attempt to leave the scene or hit and run!
Best wishes!
2007-03-13 09:17:58 · answer #2 · answered by KC V ™ 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
If someone accuses you of an accident - and you had the security guard -
take them to your car and ask them to look for the evidence!
Is there any damage on your car - the other vehicle??
Is the damage consistent with the bumper - etc - of your vehicle?
Are there paint scrubs from either vehicle on the other?
When in doubt - YOU call the law enforcement! ("there is a man yelling at me that I hit his car - and I am in the parking lot at_______________can you please send me an officer quickly?" they will want to know your car and his car etc - colors-make
And I would ask the security guard to stay with me until police arrived - even if it is the manager!
**
Yes - if investigated and if you hit him - it will be hit and run - and leaving the scene of an accident.
better luck next time - now you know
2007-03-13 09:19:35 · answer #3 · answered by tom4bucs 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you should have called the police if you were scared of this guy however they wouldn't have done anything about the "accident" all the police would have and could have done was made sure you got in your car safely ( if they would've even came out)
2007-03-13 10:46:13 · answer #4 · answered by Fire Lt. 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Police have no jurisdiction on driving accidents without injuries on private property. I'm an atty who represents a sheriff's department.
2007-03-13 09:13:56 · answer #5 · answered by David M 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
You should have called the police to prove you did not do anything.
2007-03-13 14:04:38 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋