Parking lots may seem harmless, but accidents happen there more often than people think. Whether it’s a car crash, a slip and fall, or someone getting hit while walking, these incidents can lead to serious injuries.
If you were hurt in a parking lot, you might wonder who’s responsible and what steps you should take next. Here are some of the most common causes of parking lot accidents, who may be liable, and how a personal injury lawyer in Lancaster can help protect your rights.
Common Types of Parking Lot Accidents
Parking lots are full of activity—cars moving in and out, people walking between vehicles, and sometimes poor visibility. All of this can lead to different types of accidents, such as:
Vehicle-to-Vehicle Collisions
Car accidents are common when two drivers are backing out at the same time or when one driver fails to yield while driving through the lot. Some drivers speed through lanes or don’t watch for other vehicles, causing crashes.
Pedestrian Accidents
Parking lots can be hazardous for pedestrians. A driver may not see someone walking behind their car or fail to stop at crosswalks. Pedestrians are often hit in areas without proper signage or lighting.
Slip and Fall Incidents
Uneven pavement, ice, snow, oil spills, and poor lighting are just a few hazards that can cause someone to slip and fall.
Other Hazards
Sometimes, the layout of a parking lot itself can be a danger. Poor signage, narrow driving lanes, or lack of visibility at corners all contribute to accidents.
Injuries from parking lot accidents range from minor to severe. Pedestrians hit by vehicles may suffer broken bones, spinal injuries, or head trauma. Slip and falls can lead to sprained ankles, back injuries, or concussions. Even low-speed car collisions can cause whiplash, soft tissue damage, or long-term neck and back pain.
In some cases, injuries may not show symptoms right away, which is why it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.
Who’s Liable in a Parking Lot Accident in Lancaster?
Determining who is at fault in a parking lot accident can be complicated. In many cases, more than one party could be responsible.
Drivers
Drivers must obey traffic laws even in a parking lot. If someone is distracted, speeding, or ignoring stop signs, they could be held liable for any accident they cause.
Pedestrians
Pedestrians must also use caution. If someone is walking outside of a marked walkway or not paying attention to their surroundings (like looking at their phone), they could share blame in the accident.
Property Owners or Managers
The owner of the parking lot (like a business or property manager) has a legal duty to keep the area safe. That means fixing potholes, removing ice and snow, making sure there’s enough lighting, and putting up proper signs. If they fail to do so and someone gets hurt, they may be legally responsible.
Shared Fault
Pennsylvania follows what’s called “comparative negligence.” That means more than one person can share fault for an accident. If you’re found partially responsible, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% at fault, you’ll only recover 80% of your damages.
Proving Negligence in a Parking Lot Accident
To hold someone legally responsible for your injuries, you must prove they were negligent. That means showing they had a duty to act safely, failed to do so, and that failure caused your injury. For example, a driver has a duty to yield to pedestrians, and a store owner must clear ice from walkways.
Evidence like photos, video footage, witness statements, or maintenance records can help prove that someone didn’t meet their responsibility. A personal injury lawyer can help gather and present this evidence effectively.
What to Do After a Parking Lot Accident
After an accident, seek medical attention right away—even if your injuries seem minor. Report the incident to the property manager or police and ask for a copy of the report. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any hazards that contributed to the accident. Try to get contact information from any witnesses. Most importantly, avoid admitting fault or discussing the accident with insurance adjusters until you speak with a lawyer.
How a Lancaster Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
A personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case, help identify who is liable, and gather evidence like surveillance video, witness accounts, or accident reports. They’ll also handle all communication with insurance companies and work to negotiate a fair settlement.
If your case goes to court, your lawyer will represent you and fight to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Having an experienced lawyer can make a big difference in the outcome of your claim.
Hurt in a Lancaster Parking Lot? Call Atlee Hall Today
Accidents in parking lots can be more serious than they seem—and figuring out who’s responsible isn’t always easy. That’s why it’s important to take action right away and speak with a Lancaster personal injury lawyer who knows how to handle these cases.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a parking lot accident, don’t wait. Contact our office today or call (717) 393-9596 for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
