{"id":5704,"date":"2026-08-28T12:11:22","date_gmt":"2026-08-28T19:11:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/?p=5704"},"modified":"2026-08-28T12:11:25","modified_gmt":"2026-08-28T19:11:25","slug":"damage-parked-on-a-ferry","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/car-insurance\/damage-parked-on-a-ferry\/","title":{"rendered":"What Happens If Your Car Is Hit While Parked on a Ferry?\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>For many Washington drivers, ferry travel is a regular part of commuting, visiting family, or exploring the Puget Sound region. But what happens if another vehicle hits your car while&nbsp;you&#8217;re&nbsp;parked on the ferry deck or moving through the terminal?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ferry car accidents can happen during loading, unloading, or while vehicles are parked. Knowing what to do can make the claims process easier. This guide explains how to respond, what information to collect, who may be responsible, and how&nbsp;your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/auto-insurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">car insurance<\/a>&nbsp;may help after an accident.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>After your parked car is hit on a ferry, check for injuries, notify ferry personnel, and call 911 if emergency\u00a0assistance\u00a0is needed.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Who pays for damage depends on how the accident happened, who was responsible, and the insurance coverage involved.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Claims involving a public ferry operator may have different requirements and deadlines than a standard auto insurance claim.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Photos, witness information, vehicle and insurance details, and official incident information can help document what happened.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Immediate Steps After Your Parked Car Is Hit at the Ferry Terminal or on a Ferry<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether another vehicle rolls into yours while parked or a collision happens during loading or unloading, focus first on safety and documenting the incident.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Check for injuries and call 911 if needed.<\/strong>\u00a0Make sure you, your passengers, and\u00a0others involved\u00a0are safe. If anyone is injured or needs emergency\u00a0assistance, call 911 and follow instructions from ferry personnel and first responders.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Notify ferry personnel\u00a0immediately.<\/strong>\u00a0Alert a crew member or ferry employee so they can respond appropriately and document the incident according to their procedures.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Do not drive away until cleared.<\/strong>\u00a0Follow instructions from ferry personnel about whether and when to move your vehicle.\u00a0Moving it prematurely could make documenting the accident more difficult.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Preserve the scene safely.<\/strong>\u00a0If it is safe to do so, document the position of the vehicles and surrounding\u00a0areas. Avoid arguments and follow crew instructions while\u00a0remaining\u00a0aware of traffic on the ferry deck or terminal.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ask about incident reports.<\/strong>\u00a0Find out whether an incident report is being created and ask how you can obtain the report or reference number. Note the vessel, route, sailing time, and direction of travel.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to Document the Damage and Collect Information<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Good documentation can help your insurer understand what happened and evaluate your claim.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Take clear photos and\u00a0videos.<\/strong>\u00a0Photograph\u00a0vehicle damage, license plates, vehicle positions, and relevant surroundings. If a ferry structure, ramp, barrier, or other object was involved, document that as well.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Capture ferry and trip details.<\/strong>\u00a0Note the ferry operator, vessel name, route, approximate time, and location where the accident occurred.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Exchange information with the other driver.<\/strong>\u00a0Collect the driver&#8217;s name, contact information, vehicle information, and insurance details. Make sure any exchange of personal information is done safely.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Get witness names and contact details.<\/strong>\u00a0If other passengers or witnesses saw what happened and are willing to provide their contact information, record it for later reference.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ask about cameras and official reports.<\/strong>\u00a0Ask ferry personnel whether the area may have been\u00a0monitored\u00a0and whether law enforcement or another agency will prepare a report.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Keep records for your insurer.<\/strong>\u00a0Save photos, notes, reports, repair estimates, receipts, and other documentation related to the accident and claim.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Who Pays for Damage When Your Car Is Hit on a Ferry?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Responsibility depends on how the accident occurred. Another driver&#8217;s insurance, your own auto coverage, or potentially the ferry operator could become involved.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>When another driver is clearly at fault.<\/strong>\u00a0If another driver causes the accident, their liability insurance may cover damage for which they are legally responsible, subject to the policy and circumstances.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>When your own collision coverage responds.<\/strong>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/vernfonk.com\/blog\/car-accidents\/what-is-collision-insurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Collision coverage<\/a>\u00a0may help pay for covered damage to your vehicle after a collision, subject to your policy terms and deductible.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.<\/strong>\u00a0Depending on your policy,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/vernfonk.com\/blog\/car-accidents\/uninsured-driver\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">uninsured\/underinsured motorist coverage<\/a>\u00a0may provide protection when the responsible driver does not have sufficient insurance. Coverage availability and requirements vary.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Could the ferry company be liable?<\/strong>\u00a0Liability involving a ferry operator depends on the circumstances. If you believe ferry equipment, operations, or another condition contributed to the accident,\u00a0additional\u00a0claim procedures may apply. Claims involving a government entity can have specific notice requirements and deadlines, so consider checking current Washington requirements promptly.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>How fault is\u00a0evaluated.<\/strong>\u00a0Insurers may consider driver statements, incident or police reports, witness information, photographs, available video, vehicle positions, and other evidence when\u00a0determining\u00a0responsibility.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Policy terms matter.<\/strong>\u00a0Coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions, and endorsements affect how a claim is handled.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/vernfonk.com\/blog\/comprehensive-coverage\/do-i-have-full-coverage\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Review your coverage<\/a>\u00a0so\u00a0you understand what protection you have before an accident occurs.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"668\" src=\"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/08\/VF-damage-parked-on-a-ferry-2.jpg\" alt=\"Vehicles and passengers aboard a ferry illustrating the risk of car damage while parked on a ferry.\" class=\"wp-image-5706\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/08\/VF-damage-parked-on-a-ferry-2.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/08\/VF-damage-parked-on-a-ferry-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/08\/VF-damage-parked-on-a-ferry-2-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/08\/VF-damage-parked-on-a-ferry-2-800x534.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Washington Car Insurance Works for Ferry Car Accidents<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The coverage available after a ferry-related accident depends on your policy and how the damage occurred.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Liability coverage.<\/strong>\u00a0Washington drivers must meet the state&#8217;s\u00a0minimum\u00a0auto liability insurance requirements. Learn more about\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/vernfonk.com\/blog\/car-insurance\/car-insurance-requirements-washington\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Washington car insurance requirements<\/a>. Liability coverage\u00a0generally helps\u00a0pay for covered injuries or property damage you are legally responsible for causing others, up to your policy limits.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Collision coverage.<\/strong>\u00a0Collision coverage may help pay for covered damage to your vehicle after it collides with another vehicle or object, subject to your deductible and policy terms.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comprehensive coverage.<\/strong>\u00a0Comprehensive coverage\u00a0generally applies\u00a0to certain covered losses that are not caused by a collision, such as theft, vandalism, or some weather-related damage. Exactly how a ferry-related incident is classified depends on what caused the damage and the policy.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Medical and PIP coverage.<\/strong>\u00a0Depending on your policy and applicable state requirements, Personal Injury Protection or other medical coverage may help with covered medical expenses following an accident.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SR-22 and high-risk drivers.<\/strong>\u00a0Drivers who\u00a0are required to\u00a0file\u00a0an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/vernfonk.com\/sr22\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SR-22<\/a>\u00a0should make sure they\u00a0maintain\u00a0the insurance\u00a0required\u00a0for their situation. A lapse could affect compliance with state requirements.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Claims process.<\/strong>\u00a0After an accident, report the loss according to your insurer&#8217;s procedures and provide the available documentation.\u00a0Your insurer can explain the next steps, including vehicle inspections and repairs.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Common Causes of Ferry Car Accidents<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding how ferry car accidents can happen can help drivers take precautions while loading, unloading, and parking.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Driver mistakes during loading and unloading.<\/strong>\u00a0Ferry decks can involve narrow lanes and limited space. Misjudging distance or making an incorrect maneuver can result in a collision.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Failure to\u00a0engage\u00a0parking brakes.<\/strong>\u00a0Drivers should follow ferry instructions for securing their vehicles while parked to help prevent unintended movement.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Negligence or miscommunication by ferry crew.<\/strong>\u00a0Ferry personnel direct vehicle traffic during loading and unloading. If you believe an operational issue contributed to an accident, document the circumstances and report the incident.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mechanical failures or equipment defects.<\/strong>\u00a0Problems involving a vehicle or ferry equipment could potentially contribute to an incident.\u00a0Determining\u00a0responsibility would depend on the specific facts.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Driver distraction or inattention.<\/strong>\u00a0Distractions can make it harder to navigate confined loading and unloading areas safely.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Environmental and weather conditions.<\/strong>\u00a0Wet surfaces, poor visibility, and other weather conditions can affect driving conditions around ferry terminals and decks.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Following ferry personnel&#8217;s directions and staying attentive can help reduce the risk of a collision.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Preventing Ferry Car Accidents and Protecting Yourself Before You Sail<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether ferries are part of your regular commute or an occasional trip, a few precautions can help protect your vehicle and make an unexpected accident easier to handle.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Safer parking and loading habits.<\/strong>\u00a0Follow instructions from ferry personnel and properly secure your vehicle as directed. Stay alert while entering, parking, and leaving the vessel.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stay near your vehicle when\u00a0required.<\/strong>\u00a0Follow the ferry operator&#8217;s rules\u00a0regarding\u00a0access to vehicle decks and returning to your vehicle before arrival.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use ferry terminal parking lots wisely.<\/strong>\u00a0Lock your vehicle, choose\u00a0an appropriate parking\u00a0space, and stay aware of other vehicles moving through busy terminal areas.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Review coverage before heavy ferry\u00a0season.<\/strong>\u00a0If you\u00a0frequently\u00a0travel by ferry, consider reviewing your personal auto or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/vernfonk.com\/commercial-auto-insurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">commercial auto policies<\/a>\u00a0so you understand your coverage.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Consider higher limits and optional\u00a0coverage.<\/strong>\u00a0Your\u00a0appropriate coverage\u00a0depends on your vehicle, finances, driving habits, and other risks. An insurance professional can help you review liability limits and optional\u00a0coverage.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Vern Fonk Insurance can\u00a0help<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Vern Fonk can help you compare available insurance options. Call\u00a0<a href=\"tel:1-800-455-8276\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">(800) 455-8276<\/a>, request an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">online quote<\/a>, or visit a local Vern Fonk\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/locations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">office<\/a>\u00a0to discuss your coverage needs.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions about Ferry Car Accidents and Washington Auto Insurance<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Does my car insurance cover damage that happens while&nbsp;I&#8217;m&nbsp;waiting in line at the ferry terminal?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Coverage depends on what caused the damage and the terms of your policy. For example, collision coverage may apply when your vehicle is damaged in a covered collision, while another driver&#8217;s liability coverage may apply when that driver is responsible.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don&#8217;t&nbsp;assume an accident is excluded simply because it occurred at a ferry terminal. Report the incident and ask your insurer how your coverage applies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Will my rates automatically go up after a ferry accident?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Not necessarily. Whether an accident&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/vernfonk.com\/blog\/car-insurance\/accidents-affect-car-insurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">affects your rates<\/a>&nbsp;can depend on factors such as fault, claim history, insurer rating practices, and applicable state rules.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A Vern Fonk agent can help you review your coverage and available options if your insurance needs&nbsp;to change.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Is a ferry car accident handled differently if&nbsp;I&#8217;m&nbsp;driving a work or commercial vehicle?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It can be. A commercial auto or business policy may apply when a vehicle is being used for business purposes, depending on the circumstances and policy terms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Coverage limits, exclusions, and reporting requirements can differ from personal auto insurance. If you regularly use a vehicle for work, speak with a Vern Fonk agent about&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/vernfonk.com\/commercial-auto-insurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">commercial auto insurance<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What if the ferry company denies&nbsp;responsibility,&nbsp;but I believe their loading procedures caused the crash?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Preserve your evidence, request available incident documentation, and notify your insurer. If you believe the ferry operator or another government entity may be responsible, special claim procedures and deadlines could apply.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the circumstances and severity of the loss, you may also want to seek legal advice about applicable requirements and your options.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Can I choose my own repair shop after a ferry-related accident?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your ability to select a repair facility can depend on applicable law and your policy. Your insurer may also&nbsp;maintain&nbsp;a network of recommended repair facilities.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ask your insurer or Vern Fonk agent about the repair process and your options after a covered accident.&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>For many Washington drivers, ferry travel is a regular part of commuting, visiting family, or exploring the Puget Sound region. But what happens if another vehicle hits your car while&nbsp;you&#8217;re&nbsp;parked on the ferry deck or moving through the terminal?&nbsp; Ferry car accidents can happen during loading, unloading, or while vehicles are parked. Knowing what to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":39,"featured_media":5705,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[31],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5704","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-car-insurance"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5704","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/39"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5704"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5704\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5707,"href":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5704\/revisions\/5707"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5705"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5704"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5704"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vernfonk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5704"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}