What should I do if I’m hit by another car but my car was not registered?

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What should I do if I’m hit by another car but my car was not registered?

I was sitting in my car in the parking lot after work. The car was not on. Another car attempted to pull into the spot next to me, and hit my car. We exchanged information and I need to

make a claim, but my car’s registration ran out last week. I’m in the process of registering my car as I had to get work done on it to pass an emissions test, plus my plates are from out of

state, so I have to file for an exemption which will take some time. Should I still make a claim on my vehicle for the accident? Are there any repercussions if I do?

Asked on July 4, 2016 under Accident Law, California

Answers:

S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 7 years ago | Contributor

Registration, smog, and out of state plates are irrelevant when it comes to filing a claim for property damage (cost of repairs) with the at-fault party's insurance carrier.
As the registered owner of the vehicle, you can file your claim for property damage with the at-fault party's insurance carrier without any delay or repercussions.


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