Parking Lot Accidents
If you have spent any time in a busy parking lot, you know how many close calls occur there. With so many pedestrians, distracted drivers, and small places to maneuver, it can sometimes feel remarkable if you have never been in a car accident in a parking lot. In spite of slow speeds expected in parking lots, the truth is that many injuries and fatalities do occur in these spaces. If somebody else caused an accident you were injured in, you may have some legal recourse.
What Kinds of Parking Lot Accidents Occur?
Parking accidents that involve only vehicles are common in parking lots. Knowing what kind of accident you were involved in helps you demonstrate which party may have been at fault for the incident.
One common type of parking lot accident occurs when two cars hit each other when they try to enter the same parking space, or perhaps one car backs up and hits another vehicle that is either driving by or parked elsewhere. Sometimes, two cars back up into each other or one car rear-ends another at a stop sign.
Of course, many other parking lot accidents involve pedestrians, skateboarders, bicyclists, and shopping carts. The severity of damage that results can vary wildly.
What To Do If You Are In a Parking Lot Accident?
If you are in a parking lot accident, your first step should be to receive medical attention. You should also contact the police to file a police report and ensure that you have a record of the events that occurred.
Next, take photos of both vehicles. Your smartphone is one of the best tools you can use to gather evidence. Take pictures from several angles and make sure you capture any street signs and injuries. Take a picture of the other driver as well.
Your next step is to gather the names and contact information of witnesses or passengers in the other vehicle. You may need to provide this contact information to your auto accident attorney later on.
Finally, ensure that you never apologize to the other driver or admit guilt, even if you do believe you may have caused the accident. Admission of guilt can be used against you in court, and you could end up owing the other driver money in the end.
Finally, ensure you speak with a personal injury attorney to discuss your options for pursuing a claim against another driver. You may have a strong case.