When you pull off a busy road into a parking lot, the last thing you are expecting is to be involved in a collision. The risk of a crash in parking lots is greater than you may think. Tens of thousands of motor vehicle accidents causing injury and death occur in parking lots and parking garages every year, as stated by the National Safety Council (NSC). Parking lots become even more dangerous during the holidays. Poor lighting, limited visibility, and drivers backing up without looking can lead to serious accidents.
When a Parking Garage Accident Happens: What to Do Next
Even if you are careful, accidents can still occur in parking garages. If it happens to you:
- Call the police to get an official report on file.
- Get medical attention for any injuries, even if you believe they are minor. A record of medical treatment can help your claim for compensation.
- Contact your insurance company to file a claim for the accident.
- Consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer for the best chance of recovering the compensation you deserve.
Tips for Avoiding Injury in a Parking Garage
Following these tips can help you avoid parking garage or parking lot accidents and injuries:
- Stay alert — simply driving slowly does not guarantee your safety.
- Stay in lanes rather than cutting across the lot.
- Drive slowly and use your turn signals.
- Obey stop signs and no-parking signs.
- Avoid parking too close to other cars.
- Park in a pull-through spot, if possible, to avoid the need to back out later.
- Watch carefully for vehicles and pedestrians when backing out.
- Set your side mirrors correctly.
- Anticipate the actions of other drivers.
- Use technology, such as backup cameras and motion detection, if your vehicle is equipped with it.
- Watch out for stray shopping carts that could crash into your car.
Don’t Rely Too Much on Technology
Backup accidents in parking lots cause 9% of pedestrian fatalities in the U.S., as reported by NSC. Many passenger vehicles today are equipped with backup cameras. These cameras can give you a wide view behind your vehicle when it is traveling in reverse. It is best not to rely too heavily on technology. Your view may not be clear if the camera lens is obstructed. Monitoring systems may fail to detect motorcycles, bicycles, people, or smaller objects. Before backing up, it is a good idea to do a 360° walk around your vehicle.
Liability in Parking Lot Accidents
As most parking lots and parking garages are private property, traffic laws may not apply. Insurance companies generally determine fault based on the facts of the case. Factors considered in determining liability for parking lot collisions include:
- Which vehicle was moving: If only one car involved in a crash was moving, the driver of the moving vehicle is usually assigned fault.
- Which driver had the right of way: When two vehicles are moving in a parking lot, one generally has the right of way based on the lane of traffic.
- Whether a driver was reckless: If one driver involved in a parking garage crash was speeding or otherwise driving recklessly, that driver will typically bear fault and liability.
After a parking garage crash with injuries, contact The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. at (719) 475-2555 to schedule a free consultation. We have a history of success for our clients in car accidents and personal injury matters. Founding attorney Timothy Bussey has been voted Top Attorney in Colorado Springs for eight years in a row. Our Colorado Springs personal injury attorney can tell you if you have a claim and what compensation you may be entitled to pursue.