Nearly everyone must complete errands each week, whether it is grocery shopping or going to get gas for the car. They don’t usually consider that they could be hurt in a parking lot accident. Sometimes these accidents only cause minor damage to the cars involved, but in other situations other drivers and pedestrians can be seriously hurt.
Common accidents and determining fault
Parking lot accidents commonly occur when a driver is traveling faster than the posted speed limit and hits another car or person, when two drivers are backing out of a parking space at the same time and when two cars are aiming for the same parking spot and collide.
Even though many modern cars are equipped with cameras, not all vehicles have this technology and even for those that do, drivers are still responsible for watching out for other vehicles.
When determining fault in a parking lot accident, there are two issues to consider. First, if only one car was moving at the time of the accident, it may be fairly easy to confirm that driver was at fault as long as the other driver was parked or stopped legally. Next, if one driver had the right-of-way, he or she is usually not liable for the accident.
Accident injuries
Accident victims can suffer injuries like cuts and bruises, broken bones and fractures and in some serious situations, whiplash or injuries to their neck and spine. If a person has been injured, it’s important to seek medical attention.
It can also be helpful to document the accident, such as taking photos of the other car, including the damage, license plate and other identifying information, as well as gathering witness statements if possible.
If a person has been injured in a parking lot accident, an experienced attorney can pursue a claim for compensation on his or her behalf.
