Parking Lots Are a Breeding Ground for a Car Accident

It seems like parking lots are designed for a car accident. Cars are always moving and pulling in and out of parking spaces. Drivers seem more focused on getting in and out than concentrating on other traffic. There's also the added distraction of people walking through the parking lot. While parking lot incidents are fairly common, they're usually not very high-speed collisions. Destruction is typically minimal and personal injuries not too serious. But that doesn't mean you should take an accident lightly.

What to Do If You're Involved in a Car Accident

You need to protect yourself from a potential lawsuit if you have an accident. Right after a collision:

• Move the cars out of the way
• If you're unable to move the car, put your indicators on and get out of the vehicle
• Phone for medical help if anyone has been harmed
• Phone for the authorities
• Call the insurance company
• Take a photograph on the accident
• Exchange details with the other driver, including insurance information and contact details
• Get the details of any witnesses
• Note facts around the incident like date, time, location and parking lot conditions
• Call a lawyer if the damages are extensive or you are injured.

Why Call the Police?

Police will write a report of the car accident which can help establish the facts of the case. A police officer can help at the scene with any traffic flow problems, too. What's more, an officer may be able to figure out if anyone was under the influence of drugs or alcohol or driving recklessly. In some cases, an officer won't write a report if the accident took place on private property, which most parking lots are. This is when you should take detailed notes. Why Call the Insurance Company? Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. The company will investigate the damage to your car and any other cars involved. The damages may also tell the story of what happened and help determine fault.

Why Call a Lawyer?

You may want to call a lawyer from Clore Law to help prove fault in a parking lot car accident. A lawyer will be able to go over your legal rights with you while working to ensure you are fully compensated for any injuries incurred or any damage to your car.

Who's At Fault?

When it comes to determining who is at fault for a parking lot accident, there aren't any set laws. That's mainly because most parking lots are private property, so motor vehicle and state traffic laws generally don't apply. Hence, in the majority of parking lot incidents, officers won't issue tickets. It's not uncommon for people to get involved in heated disparities when it comes to determining whose fault the car accident was. Insurance companies can decide who is at fault based on information from the police and drivers. If you have been involved in a parking lot accident, get in touch with one of our lawyers who can help you determine fault and claim your rightful compensation. Call us at 843-722-8070.