Car (parking) hassle

Questioner

I just had a very angry neighbor at the door. There was a tiny scratch on her car. From the door of my car. Happened when I got out. Her car, a very large, fat SUV, was parked crooked, with both nose and rear outside the lines of the parking space. I managed to park mine with difficulty in the space next to it. Now she is angry and threatening to take steps because she could not park her car properly. How scared should I be?

Lawyer

In general, someone can hold you liable for damages if they can prove that the damage was caused by your fault (Article 6:162 of the Dutch Civil Code). This means that your actions must have been negligent, unlawful or in breach of a legal duty and therefore caused the damage. If your neighbor has evidence that meets these criteria, she may be able to hold you liable. However, if she does not have such evidence, or if you can show that you were not at fault for the damage, it may be difficult for her to make a successful claim against you. It may be wise to seek legal advice to discuss your specific situation.