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When we think of car accidents, we often picture high-speed crashes on highways. However, the vast majority of traffic accidents happen under far less dramatic circumstances. In fact, many accidents happen at relatively low speeds in parking lots, where drivers have to navigate tight parking spots, watch out for pedestrians, and keep an eye open for other drivers backing out. Whether an accident involves a driver hitting a pedestrian, a car backing into another vehicle, or a slip-and-fall due to unsafe conditions, these incidents can lead to serious injuries. When they do, victims can hold at-fault parties liable for the harm they’ve suffered.
Common Parking Lot Accidents
Here are some of the most common types of parking lot accidents, including how they happen and who could be to blame.
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians are at high risk in parking lots. Drivers may be distracted, in a hurry, or simply not paying attention to people walking to and from their cars. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- A driver backing out of a parking space without looking
- Speeding through the lot
- Failing to stop at crosswalks or pedestrian walkways
- Distracted driving
Pedestrian injuries in parking lots can be severe in nature. Since these cars don’t travel as fast in these areas, some people assume injuries won’t be serious. However, even a slow-moving vehicle can cause lasting harm.
Car-on-Car Collisions
With so many vehicles moving in different directions, parking lots are prime spots for car crashes. Common causes include:
- Two drivers backing out at the same time
- A driver pulling into a space while another is leaving
- Running stop signs or ignoring right-of-way rules
- Failing to yield at intersections within the lot
Even at low speeds, these collisions can cause vehicle damage and injuries like whiplash, especially if one car is hit hard enough to jolt the passengers inside.
Slip-and-Fall Injuries
Not all parking lot accidents involve vehicles. If a business or property owner fails to keep the area safe, people can slip, trip, and fall. Common hazards include:
- Potholes and cracks in the pavement
- Poor lighting, making it hard to see obstacles
- Slippery conditions from spilled liquids or weather-related issues
- Uneven surfaces or missing handrails
A simple fall in a parking lot can lead to broken bones, head injuries, or even long-term pain. Property owners have a responsibility to keep their lots safe, and when they fail to do so, they may be held responsible for injuries that happen on their property.
Who Is Responsible for a Parking Lot Accident?
The person who failed to exercise adequate care is typically responsible for a subsequent accident. For example, a driver who hit you while you were walking in the parking lot could be at fault because they failed to pay attention. If a poorly maintained parking lot caused your injury, the property owner could be responsible.
Some accidents can involve multiple parties. For example, if a driver crashes into a pedestrian because the parking lot is poorly lit, both the driver and the property owner might share the blame. It’s not always easy to figure out who should be held responsible, especially when everyone tries to point the finger at someone else. That’s why having a lawyer on your side can make a big difference. They can sort through the facts, handle the insurance companies, and fight for the money you need for your injuries.
How Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman Can Help
At Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman, we’ve helped parking lot accident victims in Southaven and Hernando, MS, get the compensation they deserve. We can investigate your case, negotiate with the liable parties for a fair settlement, and fight to get you the money you need for an accident that wasn’t your fault. If you have been injured in a parking lot accident, don’t wait. Call us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the next step toward justice.
