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What to do if You are Involved in a Parking Lot Accident

What To Do If You Are Involved In A Parking Lot Accident

Although many of us associate the term car accident with a collision on the freeway or a busy intersection, the reality is that a surprising number of car accidents actually take place in parking lots. In fact, the National Safety Council estimates that more than 60,000 people are injured in parking lot car accidents every year.

 

While accidents in parking lots may occur at low speeds, they still tend to result in devastating injuries, as many of the victims are pedestrians who do not have the benefit of seat belts and air bags, but must suffer the full impact of the collision. Seeking compensation from the at-fault party who caused this type of accident is critical in these kinds of cases, which often involve substantial medical expenses, wage loss, and property damage. To learn more about filing your own car accident claim, please contact one of our experienced car accident attorneys today.

 

Distracted Driving

 

Many parking lot accidents can be attributed to motorist negligence, which can include everything from texting while driving and failing to check the area for others in the vicinity, to speeding and talking on the phone. This type of negligence can have serious consequences, leading to crashes between multiple vehicles, or collisions with pedestrians, both of which can result in devastating injuries. Fortunately, at-fault drivers can be held liable for their negligence if it leads or contributes to an accident.

 

Parking Lot Pitfalls

 

Driver negligence is not the only type of carelessness that can cause parking lot accidents, as many of these types of collisions can actually be linked to:

  • Inadequate pavement striping;
  • Cracks or potholes in the asphalt;
  • A lack of proper signage;
  • The presence of debris;
  • Poor lighting; and
  • Snow and ice buildup.

A business that fails to ensure that its property is clear of hazards and safe for visitors can be held liable for its negligence if that failure can be linked to a collision either between two or more vehicles, or a vehicle and a pedestrian.

 

What to do After a Parking Lot Accident

 

Unfortunately, even those who use great care when driving could end up being involved in a parking lot accident. In these cases, it is important for drivers and pedestrians to:

  • Check themselves and the other parties for injuries;
  • Contact emergency responders if necessary;
  • Exchange contact information with the other party;
  • Document the damage sustained to the vehicle;
  • Document the injuries sustained in the accident;
  • Report the accident to law enforcement officials; and
  • Retain all medical records for accident-related injuries.

Taking these steps can have important repercussions for injured parties who end up having to file a legal claim against the at-fault individual or business in order to retain compensation for their losses.

 

Schedule an Initial Consultation with Our Legal Team Today

 

If you or a loved one were injured in a parking lot accident, you may need the assistance of a  dedicated attorney. Please call Wagner Zemming Christensen, LLP today at 951-686-4800 to learn more about your legal options from an experienced car accident lawyer.

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