Backed into vehicle parked in red zone

[lauracampbell]

What is the name of your state?
California

I was backing out of my parking space at my apartment complex and hit my neighbors car which was parked by the red curb marked as a fire lane. Since they were illegally parked, am I legally responsible for the damages to their vehicle? I've been told that I am not because they were parked illegally, but I need confirmation.

 

[I AM ALWAYS LIABLE]

What is the name of your state?
California

I was backing out of my parking space at my apartment complex and hit my neighbors car which was parked by the red curb marked as a fire lane. Since they were illegally parked, am I legally responsible for the damages to their vehicle? I've been told that I am not because they were parked illegally, but I need confirmation.

My response:

What is the causal relationship between parking in a red zone, and your right to damage property? Answer: There is none.

The fact is, the vehicle was there, and all because it was illegally parked doesn't give you the right, or a free ticket, to play "bumper cars". You damaged someone's property due to your negligence; i.e., You weren't looking where you were going.

In conclusion, you're on the hook - - and whomever told you otherwise wasn't an attorney.

IAAL