These accidents may look minor, but they can become tricky, especially when figuring out who’s at fault.
Parking lot accidents are more complicated because they often happen in tight spaces, with drivers moving slowly but near each other. It may be unclear who had the right of way, and some drivers might be distracted.
That’s why contacting our Denver parking lot accident lawyer at Levine Law is important if you’re ever involved in one. Our team can help you understand your rights and ensure you’re not left to pay for something that wasn’t your fault.
Common Causes of Parking Lot Accidents
Tens of thousands of accidents occur in parking lots every year. Several factors can contribute to a parking lot accident, and more than one is often involved.
Here are the most common causes:
Distracted Driving
One of the biggest reasons for parking lot accidents is distracted driving. Drivers might check their phones, adjust the radio, or even talk to passengers. Because parking lots are full of pedestrians and other vehicles, even a split-second of not paying attention can lead to a crash. As a parking lot accident attorney in Denver, we must hold distracted drivers accountable.
Misjudging Distance or Speed
Parking lots are tight, and sometimes drivers misjudge how close they are to another car or how fast they’re going. A simple mistake like pulling out too quickly or turning too sharply can result in a collision. Even though these accidents often happen at low speeds, they can still cause serious damage or injuries.
Lack of Proper Signage or Poor Lighting
When a parking lot doesn’t have clear signs or enough lighting, it can confuse drivers. They might not know where to stop or how traffic should flow. Poor visibility can also make it harder to see pedestrians, leading to accidents. In these cases, the property owner might share some responsibility for the accident.
Pedestrian Accidents
Parking lots are full of people walking to and from their cars, often carrying bags or holding children’s hands. Drivers must be extra careful to watch for pedestrians, especially in busy shopping centers. If a pedestrian is hit by a car, the injuries can be severe. If you or someone you love has been involved in a pedestrian accident, a Denver injury attorney can help.
Weather Conditions
Rain, snow, and ice can make parking lots dangerous. Cars can slip or lose control when the surface is wet, and if the lot isn’t properly salted or cleared, it’s even worse. Drivers need to adjust their speed for the conditions, but many don’t, leading to more accidents during bad weather.
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Injuries Resulting from Parking Lot Accidents
Even though parking lot accidents tend to happen at low speeds, they can still cause serious injuries. Here are some of the most common:
Neck Injuries, Back Pain, and Whiplash
When someone is rear-ended in a parking lot, the sudden jolt can lead to whiplash or other neck and back injuries. These injuries can be painful and may require physical therapy or long-term treatment.
Broken Bones
In more severe parking lot accidents, people might break bones, especially if they are pedestrians. If a car hits someone who is walking, the force can break legs arms, or even cause more serious fractures.
Pedestrian Injuries
Pedestrians involved in parking lot accidents often suffer the most serious injuries. Cars may be going slowly, but they’re still much heavier than a person, and the impact can lead to broken bones, head trauma, or even internal injuries.
Liability in a Parking Lot Accident
Figuring out who is liable or responsible for a parking lot accident can be difficult. Liability depends on several factors, such as who had the right of way, whether traffic signs were followed, or whether someone was driving carelessly.
Here are some things that play a role in determining liability:
Driver Negligence
If a driver is careless or not paying attention, they can be held liable for the accident. This includes speeding through the parking lot, failing to check blind spots, or not yielding to pedestrians. If another driver caused the accident due to their carelessness, a parking lot accident attorney in Denver can help you pursue a claim against them.
Pedestrian Actions
Sometimes, pedestrians might contribute to an accident by walking in areas where drivers don’t expect them or stepping out between parked cars without looking. Even though drivers must be careful, pedestrians are also responsible for watching where they’re going.
Parking Lot Owners or Managers
In some cases, the parking lot owner or manager can be held partially responsible. This happens when the parking lot has poor lighting, confusing traffic patterns, or lacks proper maintenance. If a hazard in the parking lot contributed to the accident, they may share the blame.
Shared Liability
In some parking lot accidents, both drivers may share responsibility. For example, if two drivers backed out of parking spaces simultaneously and collided, both might be partially at fault. In Colorado, this is known as comparative negligence, where each party is assigned a percentage of the fault.
Determining Fault in a Parking Lot Accident
After a parking lot accident, one of the most important questions is: Who’s responsible? Determining fault in a parking lot accident can be tricky, especially when multiple cars are involved or conflicting stories. Here’s how fault is usually determined:
Security Footage and Witnesses
Many parking lots have security cameras, and the footage can be key in figuring out what happened. Witnesses can help explain who had the right of way or what went wrong if there are no cameras. A Denver parking lot accident lawyer can help gather this evidence to support your case.
Eyewitness Reports
Sometimes, other drivers or pedestrians see the accident and can provide statements about what they saw. These statements can help determine who was at fault, especially if the story has different versions.
Police Reports
Although not all parking lot accidents require police involvement, an official report can be helpful. Police officers are trained to assess the scene and can provide a neutral third-party opinion on who may have caused the accident.
Frequently Asked Questions about Parking Lot Accidents in Denver
What Happens If an Uninsured Driver Hits Me?
If an uninsured driver hits you in a parking lot, it can create more problems. Uninsured drivers lack the insurance coverage to pay for your damages or injuries. In these cases, you may have to rely on your insurance or seek help from a parking lot accident attorney in Denver to file a lawsuit against the other driver.
How Do I Get a Rental Car After a Car Accident?
If the other driver was at fault and their insurance accepts liability, they should provide you with a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired. However, if their insurance denies liability, you may need to work with your insurance to get a rental.
Why Isn’t My Insurance Company Paying All of My Medical Bills?
Insurance companies may not cover all your medical bills, especially if your coverage has limits. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) may cover the first portion of your medical expenses, but the rest could be your responsibility. An accident lawyer in Denver can help you fight for the full compensation you need.
Do I Have to Talk to My Insurance Company After Getting in a Car Accident?
Yes, you need to talk to your insurance company, but it’s smart to contact a lawyer first. Insurance companies may try to get you to settle quickly, which might not be in your best interest. A lawyer can help you understand what to say and what to avoid.
Do I Still Have an Injury Claim If I Wasn’t Wearing My Seatbelt?
You can still file an injury claim in many cases, even if you weren’t wearing a seatbelt. Colorado law does require drivers and passengers to wear seatbelts, but this doesn’t mean you lose all your rights to compensation.
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Why You Need a Denver Parking Lot Accident Lawyer
Parking lot accidents can be complicated, especially when proving who’s at fault and dealing with insurance companies. Having a Denver injury attorney on your side can make the process easier. They can help you gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance companies, andensuree you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
At Levine Law, our team of parking lot accident attorneys in Denver understands the unique challenges of these cases. We know how to build a strong case that protects your rights and gets you the compensation you deserve. Whether you were involved in a fender bender or a more serious pedestrian accident, we are here to help.
Contact Our Denver Parking Lot Accident Lawyer Now
If you’ve been in a parking lot accident, contact our Denver parking lot accident lawyer at Levine Law today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and help you take the following steps toward recovery. Let us handle the legal side while you focus on getting better.
