Motoring accident - parked car

[Spotty_dog]

I recently had an accident involving a parked car - I had to avoid another driver and just touched a parked car (enough to crack his rear light cover). We exchanged details - normally I would assume that I was at fault but he was parked half-on, half-off the pavement on double yellow lines and causing an obstruction. Am I justified in thinking this would be 'knock for knock' or am I wholly at fault? I have not apporoached insurers yet and am waiting to hear how much it will cost to replace the light - it was a Lexus! Many thanks for any advice!

[Loosehead]

You are wholly at fault, even if illegally parked, you are the driver that is present.

[Hammer]

I agree with Loosehead. A stationary vehicle cannot be blamed for being hit, even if it is badly / illegally parked. If there's not enough room to pass it, then you shouldn't try. Sorry.

[NORMANTHEDOG]

yep,its down to you sunshine,i would just pay up and not inform your insurance company as they will count it against you in the future,regardless.

[Dr Wu]

Might be worth going on a charm offensive and suggesting to the driver of the Lexus that you provide the rear light cover yourself as it will cost a lot more going through the lexus dealer, both for the part and labour costs even though it's probably just a couple of screws.

maybe an internet search for lexus spares could turn up a cheaper part.

suppose it all depends on how accomodating the driver is!

[Spotty_dog]

Thanks very much to everyone who replied - I pretty much thought that would be the case. Will certainly be taking the advice about not going through insurers - even with a Lexus I think it'll be cheaper in the long term.