What Should I Do After a Parking Lot Car Accident?

When parking lots are overcrowded, it can lead to car accidents. It is important to know how to navigate a parking lot in order to avoid a collision and injuries. A victim of a parking lot car accident should contact a lawyer for legal counsel.

A parking lot often becomes hectic for many drivers because of speeding, pedestrians, and other motorists. The likelihood of a parking lot accident increases when other factors are involved, like reckless or negligent driving. The main causes of parking lot accidents are the following:

• Distracted driving.
• Not being cautious of others while trying to find a spot.
• Hitting another vehicle when trying to get in the same spot.
• Getting hit by an oncoming vehicle while reversing.
• Two vehicles hit each other while reversing.
• Being blinded by a sun glare while driving.

In order to avoid a parking lot accident, drivers should remain as cautious as possible.

What are the Common Causes of Parking Lot Accidents?

Some common causes of parking lot accidents include:

Distractions: Texting and driving is one of the most common forms of distracted driving. A driver should avoid texting, it will take their attention off of the road, which can lead to a serious collision.

Weather: Another factor is inclement weather. The winter season brings cold temperatures and snow, which contributes to icy roads. Winter weather can increase the possibility of a vehicle hydroplaning, which could lead to a severe accident. Drivers in parking lots should be especially careful in winter weather. If possible, a motorist should try to avoid going to the store in inclement weather to prevent an accident.

Traffic: When the roads are busy during the morning and evening commutes, many drivers become more frustrated from the frequent traffic and crowded shopping areas. This frustration may lead to a motorist driving more recklessly, which can cause a collision. Drivers are encouraged to stay patient, despite the inconveniences.

Tips to Avoid Parking Lot Accidents

There are several steps drivers can take to avoid parking lot accidents. One tip is to avoid parking too closely to another vehicle. Drivers should try to park further away from the store where it is less crowded. This can help prevent another motorist from hitting their car if they are trying to fit into a parking space or backing out of one.

The next tip to avoid a parking lot accident is to drive with caution. Many drivers fail to drive slowly in parking lots. Drivers should be alert and cautious to avoid hitting other motorists or pedestrians. It is especially important for a driver to be cautious when reversing or entering a parking space.

If a motorist has a vehicle with collision avoidance technology, they should utilize it when parking. Many modern vehicles come equipped with rear view and side mirrors that make parking easier. Some cars even have monitors that beep if an object is too close, which reduces the chance of an accident. This is particularly important in an overcrowded parking lot.

Another tip is to choose to stay home instead of going out to shop when it is busy. Although it might be difficult to do this, it may be more beneficial to shop online because shopping centers can quickly become overcrowded.

Should I Obtain Legal Counsel After a Parking Lot Collision?

A driver should speak to a lawyer after a parking lot accident. Although a parking lot accident is not usually severe, it can still lead to injuries, vehicular damage, or even death. These losses are often due to a driver’s negligence or recklessness while driving. A lawyer can help a parking lot accident victim obtain compensation for these losses while holding the guilty driver accountable. They can also provide support and legal counsel throughout the entirety of the case.

Edwardsville Car Wreck Lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC Help Injured Parking Lot Accident Victims

If you were injured in a parking lot accident, you need to contact one of our Edwardsville car wreck lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC. Many car accident victims deal with both emotional and financial losses. These losses include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, but we can help you with your claim. For a free consultation, contact us online or call us at 618-277-3644. Located in Swansea, Illinois, we serve clients in St. Louis, Belleville, East St. Louis, Edwardsville, Granite City, Waterloo, Chester, Carbondale, St. Clair County, Madison County, Monroe County, Randolph County, and other regions throughout Southern Illinois.