Parking lots are often perceived as low-risk environments where drivers and pedestrians move at slow speeds. However, this misconception can lead to a lack of vigilance, resulting in accidents that could have been easily avoided.
Parking lot accidents may not seem as dramatic as highway collisions. However, motorists and pedestrians should not underestimate their potential severity.
The risks of parking lot accidents
Parking lots are busy areas with constant commission, especially in busy commercial areas. Many drivers are usually distracted because they’re:
- Searching for parking spaces
- Navigating tight turns
- Reversing out of spots
At the same time, pedestrians are walking to and from their vehicles, sometimes unaware of their surroundings. This combination of activities can create a perfect storm for accidents.
The common causes of parking lot accidents
Many drivers become less cautious in parking lots due to the assumption that they are low-risk environments. Many motorists lower their guard down and engage in distractions such as:
- Making phone calls they’ve been postponing
- Listening to their favorite radio show
- Chatting with passengers
Engaging in these distractive activities while maneuvering their vehicles lowers drivers’ awareness and increases the likelihood of collisions. Collisions also happen a lot when drivers back out of parking spaces without properly checking for pedestrians or oncoming vehicles.
Despite speed limits being low, some drivers fail to adjust their speed accordingly, increasing the risk of sudden collisions. Furthermore, obstacles such as parked cars, poor lighting and blind spots can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians and other vehicles.
The consequences of parking lot accidents
While many assume that parking lot accidents are minor fender benders, the reality can be much more serious. Pedestrians, especially children and elderly individuals, are highly vulnerable in parking lots. Since they are not protected by a vehicle, even a low-speed collision can lead to severe injuries such as fractures or internal injuries. Additionally, even at low speeds, vehicles can sustain significant damage in parking lot accidents. Scratches, dents and broken lights can lead to costly mechanical repairs.
Individuals who get involved in parking lot accidents may be tempted to let them slide because they seem minor compared to high-speed collisions. However, even at slow speeds, collisions can result in serious consequences. By enlisting hands-on legal guidance, affected individuals can significantly boost their odds of receiving fair compensation.
