It's easy to overlook the potential dangers of a shopping cart, but on a windy day in a sloped parking lot, these metal carts can roll toward your car with surprising speed. A single cart can hit your door or bumper, causing a noticeable dent that needs repair. And if multiple carts start rolling down the hill, the damage can be much worse—leaving you with a costly and frustrating situation.
What should you do if this happens?
File a Claim
If the incident occurred in a store’s parking lot, the responsibility may fall under premises liability. Stores are generally required to keep their property safe for customers, including the parking area. If a shopping cart caused damage to your vehicle, it’s important to report the incident as soon as possible.
First, consider contacting the police or the store directly. You may need to fill out an accident report. Keep in mind that the store might try to deny the claim, arguing they weren’t negligent. However, many stores change their stance after reviewing surveillance footage, especially if the evidence is clear. For example, a well-known case at a Sam’s Club showed that even when the store initially denied liability, the video helped prove otherwise.
Still, not every situation is straightforward. Stores have a duty to prevent foreseeable hazards, but they aren't always held fully responsible unless negligence is clearly proven. Regardless, if your car was damaged, it's wise to start a claim with your insurance company right away.
Get the Damage Assessed
After the incident, it’s important to evaluate the full extent of the damage. Sometimes, what looks like a small dent or scratch can actually hide more serious structural issues. These hidden damages can affect your car’s safety and performance, so it’s crucial to get a professional inspection.
Work closely with your insurance provider and choose a trusted auto body shop to inspect your vehicle. They’ll provide a detailed estimate of the repairs needed. Most likely, you’ll need some form of dent repair and paint work to restore both the appearance and function of your car.
If you're dealing with a shopping cart accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to DaSilva Auto Body. We offer expert assessments and high-quality repairs to help your vehicle look and drive like new. Contact our Naugatuck location today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you.
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