Parking lots are among the busiest locations for vehicles in Tampa. Whether at a concert, a football game, or simply at the supermarket or movie theater, parking lots can be accident hotspots. While some parking lot collisions are fender-benders, others can be severe incidents leading to life-altering injuries. Don’t know who is at fault in a parking lot accident?
If you suffer injuries, how can you recover compensation for losses such as medical bills and lost income? The seasoned Tampa legal team at Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers has compiled this guide to help you understand your rights and options.
Parking Lot Accident Laws
What laws govern who is at fault in a parking lot accident? Because parking lots tend to be separate spaces away from roads and highways, you might think that they are governed by their own laws. However, the state of Florida has no statutes specific to parking lots. However, laws require each lot to have specially designated accessible parking spaces. Each municipality can set its own laws regarding parking lots. For example, Tampa law requires each driver to keep their vehicle within the lines of a parking space.
Regarding accidents and liability, the law views parking lot activity similarly to operating vehicles on roadways.
Determining Fault in Parking Lot Accidents
How do you determine who is at fault in a parking lot accident? Florida is a no-fault state. Determining fault in a parking lot accident can be challenging, as these occur in tight spaces with limited visibility. However, the same principles apply to roadway accidents as they do parking lot accidents. The driver who caused the accident by failing to exercise reasonable care will typically be held liable for any resulting injuries or damages.
Factors that can contribute to a finding of fault in a parking lot accident include:
- Failing to yield the right of way to pedestrians or other vehicles
- Speeding or driving recklessly
- Failing to obey posted signs or markings
- Backing out of a parking space without checking for oncoming traffic
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
If you have been injured in a parking lot accident, gather evidence at the scene, such as pictures of the damaged vehicles and your injuries. You should also speak with witnesses to support your claim of fault against the other driver involved in the accident.
Common Parking Lot Accidents
Parking lot accidents can take many forms, but some of the most common accidents can include:
- Rear-end collisions – These accidents often occur when one driver is following another too closely or fails to brake in time to avoid a collision.
- Backing-out accidents – Drivers who fail to check their surroundings before backing out of a parking space can easily collide with another vehicle or a pedestrian.
- Parking space accidents – Accidents can occur when two drivers attempt to pull into the same parking space simultaneously or when one driver strikes another vehicle while attempting to park.
- Pedestrian accidents – Parking lots can be dangerous for pedestrians, who are often struck by drivers who are not paying attention or who fail to yield the right of way.
Regardless of the form of the accident, if you have been seriously injured in a parking lot, you may be entitled to compensation.
How to Document a Parking Lot Accident
If you are involved in a parking lot accident, document the incident thoroughly to support your claim for compensation. If you don’t know who is at fault in a parking lot accident, here are some steps you can take:
- Call the police – Even if the accident seems minor, it is a good idea to call the police and request an official accident and police report.
- Take photos – Use your smartphone to take photos of the damage to both vehicles, as well as any skid marks, debris, or other evidence at the scene.
- Gather witness information – If there were any witnesses to the accident, be sure to get their names and contact information.
- Seek medical attention – If you have been injured, seek medical attention right away, and be sure to keep all records of your treatment and expenses.
- Contact an attorney – An experienced parking lot accident attorney can help you through the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
By following these steps, you can protect your rights and maximize your chances of success in your parking lot accident case.
Compensation Available for Parking Lot Accident Injuries
Don’t know who is at fault in a parking lot accident with regards to compensation? The compensation you may receive depends on the severity of your injuries and their effect on your personal and professional life. If you work with a skilled Tampa car accident attorney, you may recover compensation for the following:
- Past, present, and future medical expenses, including any physical therapy and ongoing at-home care for a long-term disability
- Lost income from missed time at work
- Reduced earning capacity if you must leave a higher-paying job for a lower-paying one due to your injuries
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Consulting an experienced lawyer can help you reach a reasonable and informed estimate of what your case is worth.
Contact an Experienced Tampa Parking Lot Accident Attorney Today
Still don’t know who is at fault in a parking lot accident? Suffering injuries in a parking lot accident can feel overwhelming and devastating for many reasons. The aftermath can become even more challenging if an insurance company refuses to take your claim seriously.
The experienced Tampa car accident lawyers at Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers know that insurers will avoid paying injured individuals the compensation they deserve. Our lawyers are ready to negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurance adjuster to receive a full and fair settlement. If they refuse to give you appropriate compensation, our firm is prepared to fight for your interests in court.
Call our Tampa offices today for a free case review at (619) 233-5020 or contact us online for a free consultation. Learn more about how our legal team can help you get your life back on track after a Florida car accident.
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