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How is Fault Determined in a Parking Lot Car Crash in PA?
Believe it or not, parking lot car crashes are more common than you think. Tens of thousands of crashes occur in parking lots and garage structures annually, which result in injuries and in some cases, death.
Parking Lot Hazards
Parking lots and garages contain a variety of hazards that can cause crashes, including:
- Inferior lighting
- Tight corners and sharp turns
- A lack of traffic signals and signs
- Poorly marked parking lanes
- Potholes or a buildup of ice or snow
Even careful drivers can cause car crashes when these types of conditions exist. However, distracted driving has been linked as the cause of majority parking lot accidents. In fact, the National Safety Council estimates that around two-thirds of all motorists who enter parking lots do so while distracted. Distracted driving, while always dangerous, is especially risky in parking garages and lots because slower speeds tend to give pedestrians and drivers a false sense of security.
Distractions
In an NSC public opinion poll, 66% of drivers nationwide said they would make phone calls while driving through parking lots. Respondents also said they would:
- Program GPS systems (63%)
- Text (56%)
- Use social media (52%)
- Send or receive emails (50%)
- Take photos or watch videos (49%)
Proving Fault
When determining who is liable for parking lot crashes, it is important to remember that the rules of the road still apply when navigating a parking lot. This means you should follow stop or yield signs and understand when another driver has the right-of-way. Drivers who clearly violate the rules of the road will likely be found liable.
If you are backing out of a space and strike another vehicle, whether that vehicle is moving or stationary, you will likely be the one found at fault.
If both you and the other driver were backing out of a space, no fault may be found. If you strike a vehicle that is legally parked, whether you are moving or open your door into it, you will probably be found at fault. If you do not make an effort to locate the owner of the car, you could be charged with a hit-and-run.
In the case of a pedestrian accident, you are more than likely to be found at fault unless the pedestrian was negligent in some way, such as stepping into the path of your car or ignoring safety measures.
As touched on above, in certain instances, the parking lot owner may be held liable for your injuries, too, as hazards cause crashes as well.
What Happens If I am Involved in a Crash?
Follow normal post-accident protocol: call the police, exchange insurance information, and take any necessary photos.
If you have been involved in a car crash in a parking lot, speak to an experienced personal injury attorney. For a free consultation with our team at Scartelli Olszewski, P.C., contact us today. We will review the circumstances of your case and work with your insurance company to determine who is responsible for damages.
Source:
How is fault determined after a car accident?
How to deal with parking lot accidents
Parking lot collisions: whose fault is it?
Distraction Can Often Cause Parking Lot Injuries
Peter Paul Olszewski, Jr., a shareholder and managing partner at Scartelli Olszewski, P.C., brings 37 years of litigation experience. He is a renowned trial lawyer in Pennsylvania, specializing in medical malpractice, personal injury, and criminal defense. Peter's notable achievements include securing multi-million-dollar verdicts and serving as District Attorney and Judge. He is committed to community involvement and is actively engaged in various legal associations.
Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-paul-olszewski-jr-11115b1a/