Parking Lot Accidents

Parking lot accidents are more common than most people realize. Despite the lower speeds, collisions in parking lots can still result in significant damage and injuries. These areas pose unique dangers, with cars moving unpredictably, pedestrians walking between vehicles, and limited visibility. Many of these accidents happen due to driver negligence or carelessness, such as failure to yield, distracted driving, or speeding in tight spaces.

If you have suffered injuries in a parking lot accident in Prince George's County, it's crucial to have legal guidance. Foran & Foran, P.A. understands the unique circumstances of these cases. Whether your accident involved reckless driving or a distracted driver, our Maryland car accident attorneys can pursue compensation for your medical expenses and losses. Contact us to learn how our dedicated attorneys can help you recover the damages you deserve.

Parking lot accidents are frequent and often the result of driver negligence. The combination of heavy foot traffic, confined spaces, and distractions creates a hazardous environment for both drivers and pedestrians. During the holiday season, these risks increase as drivers rush and are distracted by their to-do lists. Various factors contribute to the likelihood of accidents in parking lots.

Some of the main causes of parking lot accidents include the following:

• Distracted driving. Many drivers focus on their phones or other distractions instead of focusing on their surroundings. The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that 66% of drivers admit to making phone calls while driving in parking lots, and many engage in even riskier behaviors like texting, using social media, or programming GPS systems.
• Failure to yield. Drivers often fail to yield the right of way to other vehicles or pedestrians, especially when backing out of parking spaces or turning at intersections within the lot.
• Speeding in parking lanes. Some drivers exceed safe speeds in parking lanes, making it difficult to stop in time for unexpected obstacles like pedestrians or other vehicles pulling out.
• Impaired driving. Alcohol or drug use can impair judgment and reaction time, leading to poor decision-making in parking lots.
• Personal grooming. NSC data reveals that younger drivers are more likely to engage in personal grooming while driving through parking lots, which increases their risk of causing accidents.

The combination of confined spaces, heavy pedestrian traffic, and other factors make parking lots particularly high-risk areas for accidents. Addressing these common causes is essential to reducing the frequency of collisions in parking areas.

Although parking lot accidents generally happen at lower speeds, the injuries sustained can still be serious. Pedestrians, particularly, are at high risk of being struck by vehicles backing out of spaces or speeding through crosswalks. Common injuries include fractures, head trauma, and even fatalities in severe cases. Motorists in parking lot accidents may also face neck and back injuries due to abrupt stops or collisions.

In parking lot accidents, liability often falls on the driver who acted negligently, whether distracted, failing to yield, or speeding. However, determining fault can be complicated, especially in busy lots. Foran & Foran's experienced Prince George's County parking lot accident lawyers can help gather evidence, such as surveillance footage or witness statements, to build a strong case.

Victims of parking lot accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs. Since parking lots are private property, insurance claims can be complex, with both drivers' insurance policies potentially coming into play. Whether you were hit as a pedestrian or were in your car when the accident occurred, the attorneys at Foran & Foran will fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one was recently injured in a parking lot accident, reach out to the dedicated Prince George’s car accident lawyers at Foran & Foran, P.A. to learn more about your options. At Foran & Foran, P.A., we take pride in aggressively representing our clients’ interests and helping secure meaningful compensation on their behalf. Contact us today at 301-441-2022 to schedule a free consultation. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville, and the surrounding areas.