Parking lots are often overlooked when it comes to accident risks, but they can be surprisingly dangerous. With cars pulling in and out of spaces, pedestrians walking between vehicles, and limited visibility, parking lot accidents are common across California. These accidents can result in serious injuries, leaving victims with high medical costs and other losses. At Hillstone Law, our attorneys help victims of parking lot accidents pursue compensation for their injuries and damages.
Common Causes of Parking Lot Accidents
Parking lot accidents often occur due to negligence, including:
- Drivers failing to yield when backing out of spaces
- Speeding in crowded lots
- Distracted driving (texting or looking for open spaces)
- Poor lighting in lots and garages
- Unsafe property maintenance (potholes, uneven pavement, lack of signage)
- Pedestrian collisions when drivers don’t check crosswalks or walkways
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), tens of thousands of crashes happen in parking lots every year, many due to distracted drivers.
Source: https://www.nsc.org/
Injuries Caused by Parking Lot Accidents
Parking lot accidents can cause severe injuries, including:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Pedestrian fatalities in severe cases
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that pedestrian accidents are especially dangerous in areas with limited visibility like parking lots.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/
Liability in Parking Lot Accidents
Determining liability in a parking lot accident depends on the circumstances:
- Drivers – negligent drivers who were distracted, speeding, or reckless
- Business or property owners – if unsafe conditions such as poor lighting, potholes, or lack of traffic control contributed to the accident
- Employers – if the driver was operating a company vehicle within the scope of employment
Victims may be entitled to damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses.
What to Do After a Parking Lot Accident
If you’re injured in a parking lot accident, follow these steps:
- Call the police and file an accident report.
- Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and any hazards.
- Gather witness names and contact details.
- Seek immediate medical care.
- Request video surveillance footage if available.
- Contact an accident attorney before speaking with insurance companies.
How Hillstone Law Can Help
At Hillstone Law, our experienced attorneys know how to handle the unique challenges of parking lot accident cases. We will:
- Investigate the scene and secure surveillance footage
- Review police reports and witness testimony
- Hold negligent drivers, businesses, or property owners accountable
- Work with medical experts to prove the extent of your injuries
- Fight for maximum compensation through settlement or trial
Our goal is to ensure you receive fair compensation for:
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering damages
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or wrongful death claims
If you or a loved one was injured in a parking lot accident in California, Hillstone Law is here to protect your rights and fight for the justice you deserve.
