Parking lots may seem like low-speed, low-risk areas, but in 2025 San Diego has seen a surge of accidents in shopping centers, malls, and entertainment districts. With distracted drivers, crowded lots, and constant foot traffic, parking lot crashes are leaving victims with serious injuries. From fender benders to pedestrian tragedies, these are the worst parking lot accident hotspots in San Diego this year.
1. Fashion Valley Mall
Fashion Valley is one of San Diego’s busiest shopping destinations, and its parking lots are notorious for accidents. In 2025, multiple pedestrian incidents and vehicle collisions have been reported, often caused by drivers speeding to grab limited spaces.
2. Mission Valley Shopping Center
Mission Valley’s sprawling parking areas create constant risks. In 2025, several crashes involved drivers backing out without checking for pedestrians, as well as distracted drivers using phones while navigating crowded aisles.
3. Petco Park Parking Garages
During Padres games and events, Petco Park garages are packed with thousands of vehicles. In 2025, hit-and-runs, fender benders, and pedestrian accidents have been reported on game days, often tied to impatient or intoxicated drivers.
4. San Diego State University Parking Structures
SDSU students and staff face daily risks in crowded campus garages. In 2025, parking lot accidents have included vehicle collisions, motorcycle wipeouts, and pedestrians struck while walking between levels.
5. Balboa Park Lots
Tourists and locals flock to Balboa Park, but its parking lots are cramped and poorly designed. In 2025, pedestrian injuries and car-to-car accidents have increased, especially during weekends and special events.
Why Parking Lot Accidents Are So Common
Even at low speeds, distracted driving is the biggest factor behind parking lot crashes. Drivers looking for spaces or texting are less likely to see pedestrians. In 2025, San Diego has also reported more DUI-related parking lot incidents, particularly in nightlife areas. Poorly designed lots, blind corners, and inadequate signage add to the dangers.
Human Impact in 2025
In March, a young child was struck by a driver backing out of a space at Fashion Valley Mall. In May, a pedestrian suffered leg fractures after being hit by an SUV at Balboa Park. These incidents show that parking lot accidents can be just as devastating as freeway crashes.
Legal Rights for Victims
Victims of parking lot accidents in California may file claims against negligent drivers, property owners, or even event organizers if poor design or lack of security contributed to the crash. In 2025, more victims are pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term injuries caused in these “minor” but very serious accidents.
Conclusion
The worst parking lot accidents in San Diego in 2025, from Fashion Valley Mall to Petco Park remind us that no space is truly safe from negligent driving. At Hillstone Law, we represent victims of parking lot accidents, fighting for accountability and the compensation they need to recover. If you or a loved one has been injured in a San Diego parking lot crash, our team is here to help.
Note: These blog posts are created solely for the use of Hillstone Law. The information is gathered from internet research, publicly available sources, and artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT. While we aim to share helpful and educational content, Hillstone Law does not independently verify every detail. Some information may be incomplete, outdated, or subject to change without notice. If you believe any part of a post is inaccurate, misleading, or infringes upon copyright, please contact Hillstone Law immediately so we can review it and take appropriate action, including correction or removal.
Disclaimer: The material provided in these blogs is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Reading these posts does not create, and is not intended to create, an attorney-client relationship with Hillstone Law. Our intent is to share knowledge, raise awareness, and provide helpful resources to the public; however, Hillstone Law makes no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided, and expressly disclaims liability for any actions taken in reliance on it. The photos used in these posts are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict actual clients, individuals, or incidents unless expressly stated. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please contact Hillstone Law at (855) 691-1691. Our attorneys are available to answer your legal questions and help you understand your rights.
