Accidents in parking lots may not seem as serious as other types of car accidents, but they can cause painful, long-lasting injuries. Parking lot accidents account for a high percentage of the total car accidents that happen every year in the U.S. Drivers may be more distracted in parking lots, have their guard down, and pay less attention, leading to preventable collisions.
You aren’t alone if you or your loved one has been injured in a parking lot accident in Arkansas. Principal attorney Tim Reed of the Reed Firm is here to help. He will carefully review the facts of your case, answer your questions, and help you understand your legal options. You may be entitled to compensation for your past and future medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Contact the Reed Firm today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal rights.
Common Types of Parking Lot Accident Cases We Handle
Parking lot accidents occur in many different situations. However, a common thread among all auto accidents is negligence. Negligence occurs when drivers fail to use reasonable care under the circumstances to prevent injury to others. When drivers aren’t paying attention or are engaged in negligent behavior, they are more likely to collide with another vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist in a parking lot.
Backing Out of a Parking Space
Even though many newer vehicle models come with backup cameras, backup accidents continue to happen in parking lots. When drivers aren’t paying careful attention to what’s behind them when backing out of a parking space, they can easily collide with a pedestrian or hit another vehicle. The driver backing out of a parking spot has a legal duty to keep an eye out for pedestrians behind the vehicle. Generally, the driver backing out is at fault in these accidents. However, the case can become more complicated when two cars back out of a space simultaneously and collide.
Disobeying Signs in a Parking Lot
Drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists in a parking lot have a legal obligation to follow the traffic signs and lights in parking lots and parking structures. Many parking lots have one-way signs, pavement markings, or stop signs to guide drivers and keep them safe. Accidents can occur when drivers ignore these signs and markings. Generally, drivers who violate traffic signs or signals and cause an accident are at fault.
Pull-Through Accidents
A pull-through accident happens when a driver pulls through a parking space into the empty parking space in front. However, the driver pulling through a parking space has a legal obligation to make sure another driver isn’t trying to turn into the parking space from the other side at the same time.
Speeding or Reckless Driving
Parking lots and garages are not designed for drivers to drive at high speeds. In most cases, the posted speed limits are 10 mph or 15 mph at the most in parking lots. When drivers drive above the posted speed limit, it can be dangerous. They do not have as much time to stop to avoid colliding with pedestrians or vehicles.
Proving Liability After a Parking Lot Car Accident
You may be wondering what to do next if you’ve been injured in a parking lot accident. After receiving medical treatment for your injuries, we recommend that you discuss your case with an attorney. An attorney will know what to ask to better understand what happened and who is at fault for your injuries.
Parking lot accidents involving vehicles are still considered car accidents, and the same negligence laws apply. Accordingly, as the victim of a parking lot accident, you still have the right to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company or pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault party.
Recovering Compensation Through an Insurance Claim
Under Arkansas law, the at-fault driver must cover damages through his or her auto insurance policy. After you file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, the insurance adjuster will probably call you and ask to take a recorded statement. Don’t talk to the at-fault’s insurance company without consulting a lawyer first.
Even if the claims adjuster calls and makes you an offer, you will need your attorney to negotiate a better offer. Additionally, the insurance company may try to claim that you were at fault for the accident or that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim. Your attorney will be able to gather evidence and negotiate with the insurance company for the best outcome possible. In some cases, you may have to file a personal injury lawsuit to get fair compensation.
Damages Available Through a Personal Injury Lawsuit
A personal injury lawsuit may be the best option for you. As the plaintiff, you can pursue compensation for your economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are easily quantifiable damages, including your medical expenses, property damage, and lost income. Non-economic damages include the pain and suffering you’ve endured from your injuries. Working with an attorney can help you estimate your claim’s full and fair value.
Discuss Your Case with a Skilled Arkansas Parking Lot Accident Attorney Today
Even though many parking lot accidents occur at low speeds, they can still cause debilitating injuries. If you have been injured in a parking lot accident, speaking to an attorney can help you understand whether you have a valid legal claim for compensation. You only have a limited amount of time to pursue damages, and the sooner you speak to an attorney, the sooner your attorney can begin preparing your case. Contact the Reed Firm to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation.