Driving through a parking lot can be a surprisingly overwhelming experience at times, with vehicles blindly backing out of parking spots and others disregarding any and all laws of the road. The close proximity, array of activities occurring, and hurried nature of drivers can all increase the risk of accidents.
The steps you take after the accident can significantly influence your ability to obtain compensation for any injuries and damages you experienced. Fortunately, you don’t have to do it alone. Contact Hastings & Hastings to speak with a car accident lawyer to determine your next steps.
Parking lot accidents have their own set of characteristics and can lead to particular types of injuries. Due to the slow speeds generally involved, the outcomes can differ from high-speed collisions. Injuries may include:
When cars are moving at higher speeds or pedestrians are involved, these accidents can still have severe consequences, and can even be fatal.
Understanding the common causes of parking lot accidents is the first step in preventing them and navigating the aftermath. Some of the most common causes include the following:
If you’ve been involved in a parking lot accident that you believe was caused by someone’s negligence, you could be entitled to compensation.
Determining liability is often the most complex aspect of a parking lot accident case. Some of the most common parties that may be responsible include:
Negligent Drivers: Most parking lot accidents see liability falling on an at-fault driver for engaging in negligent behavior. This usually includes speeding, ignoring stop signs, or driving while distracted.
Parking Lot Owner or Operator: If the parking lot owner or operator didn’t maintain the area and it contributed to the accident, they could be held liable.
Pedestrians: While pedestrians have the right of way in designated areas, their behavior can sometimes contribute to accidents by failing to cross at the appropriate areas.
Shared Liability: In some cases, both parties involved in the accident can share fault.
To obtain the compensation you’re entitled to, you need to determine who is responsible for the accident, which is best done with the help of a car accident lawyer.
Facing an accident is overwhelming, and the legal process can be complex. A personal injury lawyer can provide assistance by taking the following steps:
Investigating the Accident: A lawyer will investigate all aspects of the accident to recover evidence that will help your claim. This often includes photos and videos of the accident scene, medical records, witness statements, and video footage of the accident if available.
Dealing With Insurance Companies: Insurance companies, usually the primary source of compensation after an accident, often seek to minimize payouts by downplaying your injuries or trying to shift blame. A lawyer will fight back against these tactics to try to get you the compensation you truly deserve.
Representing you in Court: If you’re unable to reach an acceptable settlement with the insurance company, a car accident lawyer will file a lawsuit and take your claim to court, presenting evidence in front of a judge and jury.
Working with a lawyer gives you the best chance at recovering what you’re entitled to, as insurance companies will often try to take advantage of claimants who don’t have legal representation.
If you were injured in a parking lot accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, you have legal recourse. Just remember, you don’t have to face this situation alone. Hastings & Hastings can provide the legal assistance you need to recover deserved compensation, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.