Who is at fault for hitting a garbage bin; driver or homeowner?

If you are driving and strike a stationary item such as a garbage can, even if it is in the road, you will most likely be held liable for the damage to your car.

This is similar to striking a car door. If someone opens the door into traffic, then the person who opened the door is responsible. However, if the door is already open, and someone drives down the road and strikes it, then the driver is at fault. The garbage can in your instance could have been blown into the street by winds and the owner would not have known it. Depending upon the cost of the mirror, you may want to pay for the repairs yourself, since you probably have a deductible (this would be the collision deductible) and the cost of the mirror may not be worth filing a claim.

Ultimately, it is your responsibility to use caution when you’re behind the wheel and avoid hitting anything or anyone.