Parking lot accidents come in many shapes and forms. To start, vehicles can crash into one another or pedestrians and stationary objects. Most of these are preventable, but the risk increases during busy times of year and at night when there is less visibility. Here are the best ways to avoid parking lot accidents and stay safe:
- Avoid peak shopping times. The busiest grocery shopping days are on the weekends, so avoid those days or go early in the morning when possible. Online shopping can keep you out of chaotic shopping mall parking lots.
- Slow down. Parking lots can be filled with hazards, obstacles, and dangerous drivers. It is common for people to fail to yield the right-of-way, ignore pavement markings, or be distracted.
- Drive slowly, yield to others, and be vigilant when turning, backing up, and going around corners. Other drivers and pedestrians might not be looking out for you, but your caution can prevent accidents and save lives.
- Take extra steps. Check your rear and sideview mirrors often, adjusting them as needed. Ensure that your windshield wipers and lights are all working properly, and set your GPS route before proceeding. Cell phones should be on Do Not Disturb, and double-check that everyone is buckled up safely. Finally, always use your turn signals in parking lots, even if you do not think it is necessary.
Who Is Liable for a Parking Lot Accident?
The answer to this depends on several factors. In busy parking lots, vehicles and pedestrians can be coming from all directions, which makes determining liability more difficult.
With rear-end accidents, the driver in the second vehicle is usually responsible for the crash. They have a legal duty to keep a safe distance from you, so failure to do that might amount to negligence. Left-turn accidents happen when one driver does not observe right-of-way rules so that they can be at fault for a crash.
Right-of-way rules apply in many parking lot accident claims. Drivers on the main road encircling the lot (through lanes) have right-of-way since more vehicles move at faster speeds. After that, vehicles in the parking lanes with the spots have right-of-way over parked vehicles. There may be signs to direct drivers, but that is not always the case. If you were involved in a parking lot accident, the driver who failed to yield will likely be held responsible.
Can I Be Compensated for a Parking Lot Accident?
Fortunately, most parking lot accidents are not serious, with little or no damage or injuries. Still, drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists can suffer significant injuries and be entitled to compensation for medical expenses directly related to the injuries, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
Our Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC Are Experienced in Parking Lot Accident Cases
Our skilled Delaware car accident lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC can help if you were seriously injured in a parking lot accident. Call us at 302-888-1221 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, Newark, and Middletown.