Parking Lot Accidents in California: What to Do If You’re Injured
Parking lots can pose serious dangers to individuals and families, especially in high-traffic areas. A visit to the grocery store or the doctor’s office may cause severe vehicle collisions, leaving victims injured and afraid of what to do next. However, parking lot accidents are not limited to collisions involving vehicles. Oftentimes, pedestrians walking to and from stores are struck by cars that seem to appear out of nowhere, causing traumatic injuries. Understanding the safety risks and concerns of parking lot accidents will help individuals keep themselves and those around them safe.
Why Parking Lot Accidents Are So Common
Parking lots are made up of vehicles, pedestrians, shopping carts, and tight spaces. Drivers can become distracted while searching for a spot or backing up without looking for pedestrians or other cars. This combination makes parking lots unsafe for those who are unprepared or for children who are left unattended. In addition, pedestrians who walk directly behind cars are putting themselves in harm's way, as drivers cannot always see an individual who is in their blind spot. Common causes of parking lot accidents may include:
- Drivers backing out of a parking spot without checking their surroundings
- Speeding through aisles
- Distracted driving (phones, navigation systems, or passengers)
- Failure to yield to pedestrians
- Confusing or missing signage
- Poor lighting at night
- Two drivers who are reversing simultaneously
Pedestrians struck by moving vehicles may suffer severe injuries that may lead to long-term health effects.
What To Do Immediately After a Parking Lot Accident
Many people underestimate the safety risks of parking lot collisions and do not take the precautionary measures to help decrease the chances of one occurring. When a vehicle collision does occur, many individuals will minimize the severity of the accident and not take the steps needed to recover from the damage caused.
1. Check for injuries and call for help
When victims are involved in a parking lot vehicle collision, it is important to check for damage and seek the necessary medical attention needed to recover. Even individuals with minor injuries should pursue medical help, as their injuries can worsen over time if left untreated. Minor symptoms may include dizziness, headaches, or neck pain. Understanding this is important to reduce the risk of future harm or long-term health concerns.
2. Report the incident
Documentation is crucial when dealing with parking lot accidents. The proper documentation can create written records of how the accident occurred, ultimately reducing future complications. Victims may:
- Call local police (particularly if injuries occurred)
- Notify store management or property security
- Request an incident report if available
3. Exchange information
Victims may obtain:
- Driver’s license information
- Insurance details
- License plate number
- Contact information
4. Gather evidence
If it is safe to do so, gather evidence and take photos and videos of:
- Vehicle positions
- Damage
- Tire marks
- Nearby signs
- Lighting conditions
- Surveillance cameras
It is also important to obtain witness contact information and a recorded statement of the events that occurred during the accident.
Who May Be Liable for a Parking Lot Accident?
One of the most challenging factors of parking lot cases is determining who may be liable for the accident. Oftentimes, responsibility may be shared among multiple parties, making this process a complicated one.
1. Another Driver
In many cases, another motorist may be held responsible for the damage caused. Examples of this may include, but are not limited to, the following.
- Backing out without looking
- Failing to yield when exiting a parking space
- Driving the wrong direction down an aisle
- Speeding through pedestrian areas
California follows a comparative fault system, which allows more than one party to share responsibility for misconduct.
2. The Property Owner or Business
Oftentimes, the parking lot itself can contribute to the accident. Businesses and property owners have a legal obligation to maintain reasonably safe premises for visitors. If these entities were aware or should have been aware of damage in the parking lot structures, they may be held liable for the harm and injuries caused. Liability may be shared when accidents involve the following.
- Broken pavement or potholes
- Poor lighting
- Missing crosswalk markings
- Obstructed visibility
- Malfunctioning gates
- Lack of traffic signage
3. A Third Party
Periodically, a third party may contribute to the parking lot incident, such as:
- A maintenance contractor who created a hazard
- A valet service employee
- A delivery driver operating a company vehicle
- A rideshare driver
Special Issues: Pedestrian Parking Lot Injuries
Pedestrian injuries may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Hip fractures
- Concussions
- Knee injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Facial trauma
The Importance of Speaking to a Legal Professional
If you or someone you love was injured in a parking lot collision, you may consider speaking with a legal professional to understand your rights and discuss your options. A legal professional may review the facts of the case, communicate with insurers, identify potentially responsible parties, and explain the claims process. The proper legal guidance may also help victims focus on recovering from their injuries.
How KAASS LAW Can Help
At KAASS LAW, we understand the complexities victims and their families face when dealing with parking lot collisions. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will help clients understand their rights and allow them to focus on recovering from their injuries. Parking lot collisions can involve multiple parties, making the legal process challenging and draining for victims. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries from a parking lot collision, you are not alone. Contact KAASS LAW today to discuss your options.