California Parking Lot Accident Lawyers
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Powerhouse California Parking Lot Accident Lawyers With 98% Success Rate
Parking lots can be just as treacherous as busy roads. Injuries in these areas can lead to overwhelming medical bills and life-changing consequences. Trust Arash Law to secure the compensation you deserve. Our experienced attorneys specialize in complex personal injury cases, offering deep legal knowledge and a strong commitment to client advocacy for the best possible outcome. Don’t let a parking lot accident turn your world upside down; reach out to Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation today.
With tight spaces, multiple vehicles, and numerous distractions, parking lot accidents are common. Whether due to distracted or reckless driving, the potential for severe injuries is always present. Accidents in parking lots come with their challenges.
Establishing fault in a parking lot can be more challenging than accidents on public roads where traffic laws are more clearly defined. Things can get even trickier when determining a fault where both vehicles are backing up. This can lead to disputes between the parties involved, making it vital to gather as much evidence as possible, such as photographs, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage. Another issue that may come up is insurance coverage. California law mandates all drivers to carry auto insurance, but the specific coverage for accidents in private parking lots can vary.
If you’re injured in a parking lot accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Our lawyers at Arash Law specialize in these cases and can help you get the justice you deserve. Contact us to start your claim today.
Choose Arash Law Parking Lot Accident Lawyers And Win
Parking lots and multi-level parking structures in California can be hazardous. Mistakes, negligence, and unsafe conditions in these locations can lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Arash Law has worked in many parking lot collision cases and provides comprehensive legal services to ensure victims receive maximum compensation.
Here are the key services we provide:
- Thorough Investigations — Apart from gathering substantial evidence, we employ forensic engineers to assess factors such as lighting, design, visibility, and signage.
- Expertise In Personal Injury Law — We use our knowledge of the law to determine liability. Our attorneys are experts in analyzing faults in accidents involving vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles, and motorcycles.
- Comprehensive Compensation — Focus on securing compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other costs.
Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., is one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, with over 100 legal professionals dedicated to serving clients. With a proven track record of recovering over $750 million for accident victims, our law firm stands out for its success and commitment to justice. We pride ourselves on being accessible around the clock, offering a no-win, no-fee guarantee, and providing free consultations and personalized service to ensure our clients receive the support they need at any time.
Here are some of the things we can do for you:
- Connect you with top medical practitioners to assess your medical needs and facilitate ongoing medical care.
- Provide expert legal guidance to safeguard your rights.
- Determine the true value of your case and hold all responsible parties accountable.
- Efficiently handle communication with insurers and other parties involved.
- Manage intricate legal issues, allowing you to focus on recovery.
- Secure fair settlements through aggressive negotiation.
- Provide court representation if a settlement is not attained.
We also have extensive experience in handling parking lot accidents. In one case, we recovered $1,000,000 for a client who was walking through a parking lot when they were hit by the defendant’s vehicle at a slow speed, causing a pre-existing eye condition to worsen.
Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Trust our parking lot accident lawyers in California to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Parking Lot Hazards
Many health and safety hazards lurk around parking lots. The flow of vehicles and pedestrian movement within a parking lot inherently carries risks of accidents. Everyone is responsible for acting with reasonable care to prevent accidents. So, if a negligent person or driver causes your injuries, compensation may be warranted.
Motor Vehicle Hazards
- Limited Visibility — Due to the proximity of cars, drivers are often unable to see clearly behind them until they begin reversing, making it difficult to avoid collisions in time.
- Unpredictable Pedestrian Actions — Pedestrians can suddenly pause to pick up items or walk closer to a vehicle’s blind spot. Children may dart in and out among rows of cars, leading to sudden accidents.
- Distracted Driving — Accidents are often caused by individuals who speed, talk on the phone, or engage in other distractions while driving.
- Reckless Driving — Despite most parking lots being privately owned and not subject to general traffic laws, drivers must consistently operate their vehicles safely and reasonably. Accidents resulting from reckless or speeding drivers often yield severe consequences.
Other Potential Hazards
- Poor Parking Lot Conditions — Inadequate lighting, potholes, indistinct markings, and adverse weather conditions leading to slippery or icy surfaces can contribute to accidents.
- Potentially Dangerous Individuals — The presence of potentially dangerous individuals in parking lots can also trigger accidents or injuries beyond one’s control.
Exercising additional caution could prevent many incidents in these locations. Our California parking lot accident attorneys are well-versed in these hazards and can help you seek compensation if you are injured due to someone else’s negligence.
Learn more about the basics of parking lot accidents.
Gomez v. PG Transportation (settled on 8/11/2023) – settlement involving a man who was struck by a car resulting in a mild traumatic brain injury as well as other orthopedic injuries.
– TINA ESHGHIEH
Common Accidents In Parking Lots
Parking lots may seem low-risk, but they can be hotspots for various accidents. Here are the most frequent types of incidents in these spaces:
Motor Vehicle Accidents
- Backing-Up Accidents — Vehicles backing out of parking spaces can collide with other cars, pedestrians, or objects.
- Collisions Due To Sudden Turns — Drivers rushing for parking spots may make abrupt turns, drive in the wrong direction within parking aisles, or engage in other hazardous behaviors. Such actions can cause head injuries or facial lacerations due to collisions.
- Excessive Speed Incidents — The rush to enter or exit parking areas can result in speeding accidents, sometimes causing vehicles to jump curbs or hit pedestrians. These incidents can result in severe injuries like broken bones in the legs and arms or even partial and full amputations.
- Rear-End Collisions — Abrupt stops or sudden movements often lead to rear-end collisions, especially when vehicles follow too closely or travel at high speeds. Injuries from these accidents include whiplash and other neck injuries.
- Accidents When Entering or Exiting Parking Lots — Collisions often happen when vehicles, including larger ones like delivery trucks, enter or exit parking lots, leading to crashes with cars, pedestrians, cyclists, or motorcycles, resulting in serious injuries such as spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
Parking lot accidents, though usually involving low-speed collisions, can cause substantial harm. Even between 5 and 15 mph, the impact can cause severe injuries, such as internal bleeding or brain injuries.
Other Accidents
- Pedestrian Accidents — Rain, snow, or ice can create hazardous conditions for pedestrians, increasing the risk of accidents. Accidents involving pedestrians using wheelchairs, scooters, or strollers can also occur due to rugged surfaces or obstacles.
- Slip-and-Fall Accidents — Uneven surfaces, wet floors, or debris can cause people to trip and fall, leading to injuries.
- Work-Related Accidents — Employees can be injured in parking lots while performing work-related activities, such as moving merchandise or assisting customers.
At Arash Law, we understand these challenges and the risks they pose to both pedestrians and drivers. Our experienced team of parking lot accident lawyers in California is committed to enhancing safety awareness and advocating for those affected by these accidents.
Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I have a case?” form for a free consultation. Trust us to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
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Accident-Prone Parking Lots
California’s parking lots, often bustling hubs of activity, can be unexpectedly dangerous. From the frenetic pace of shoppers at bustling malls to the steady stream of cars at busy airports, these locations are hotspots for minor collisions and serious crashes alike. Despite safety measures, the high volume of vehicles and pedestrians creates a perfect storm for accidents. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most accident-prone parking lots in the Golden State and discuss why they are particularly susceptible to fender benders and more severe incidents.
Airport Parking Lots
Airport parking lots experience constant activity, and while many anticipate hassle-free entry and exit, complications can arise. Various hazards within airport parking lots can lead to incidents, such as slip-and-falls, trip-and-falls, falling object incidents, and even assault and battery occurrences.
For example, on June 22, 2024, a tragic accident occurred at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) when a vehicle flew off an exit ramp and crashed into a parking lot, resulting in two fatalities and one serious injury. These incidents show how dangerous airport parking lots can be.
Construction In Or Around Parking Lots
Many parking lots continue to operate amid ongoing construction activities. Construction zones can be high-risk areas due to the presence of heavy machinery, moving vehicles, and workers navigating the area. It is the contractors’ responsibility to deploy appropriate warning signs and block off areas as needed to maintain safety on their construction sites, ensuring the well-being of workers and visitors.
If you or a loved one has suffered harm in a parking lot undergoing construction, you may have grounds to initiate a claim against both the contractor and the property owner. For comprehensive insights into the legal options at your disposal, we strongly advise seeking legal assistance from our parking lot accident attorneys as soon as possible.
Shopping Mall Parking Lots
Shopping malls are busy centers with high traffic volumes and limited visibility due to parked cars. Drivers often rush to find parking spots, leading to sudden stops and turns. Pedestrians navigating between cars further complicate the environment. Distractions such as loading or unloading purchases increase the risk of minor collisions. This combination of high vehicle density, hurried drivers, and limited visibility makes shopping mall parking lots particularly prone to accidents.
Reckless driving is particularly dangerous in the confined spaces of parking lots. In 2022, a BMW was discovered suspended from the escalator on the third level of the parking garage at the North Hollywood West Mall. Authorities believe the driver was engaged in a race with another vehicle when he lost control and collided with the escalator.
In November of the same year, three people were injured in a three-vehicle crash at the Bridgepointe Shopping Center in San Mateo. The accident occurred in the north end of the parking lot near Target, and the cause was still under investigation at the time of the report.
School Parking Lots
Parents dropping off and picking up children can lead to congestion, especially during peak hours. High school parking lots may also have young, inexperienced drivers who are still getting accustomed to navigating busy areas. This combination can lead to accidents, as was the case with Frederick Hoff, who suffered serious injuries when a student exiting the Vacaville High School parking lot jumped the curb and struck him on the sidewalk across the street.
Hospital Parking Lots
Emergency vehicles and visitors can create chaotic traffic patterns in hospital parking lots. In one incident, a car went off a parking structure at Children’s Health of Orange County and landed on the hospital’s nearby rooftop patio. The driver was hospitalized.
Grocery Store Parking Lots
Grocery stores, especially during weekends and holidays, can experience busy parking lots with cars and shopping carts moving around. In an unfortunate accident, a pedestrian was struck and killed by a vehicle in the parking lot of Rainbow Grocery Cooperative in San Francisco on December 11, 2023. The victim was identified as Timothy Waters, a 74-year-old man from San Francisco. The driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with the investigation.
These are just a few examples of parking lots where accidents are more likely to occur. If you or a loved one has been injured in such an unfortunate incident, contact our California parking lot accident attorneys for a free consultation about your best options.
Right Of Way Rules In California Parking Lots
Knowing who has the right of way, even in parking lots in California, is crucial for maintaining safety and order. Here are the basic right-of-way rules for both drivers and pedestrians.
- Main lanes have the right of way over cars exiting parking spots or feeder lanes.
- Feeder lanes have the right of way over cars backing out of parking spots.
- Drivers leaving a parking spot must stop and check for traffic before moving.
- At intersections, the first car to stop has the right of way. If two cars arrive at the same time, the one on the left yields to the one on the right.
- Use turn signals to show where you’re going.
- Follow one-way arrows in lanes.
- Pedestrians have the right of way, especially at crosswalks.
What To Do After A Parking Lot Accident
After a parking lot accident, it is essential to take certain steps to ensure your safety, protect your rights, and facilitate any potential legal proceedings. While not all situations are the same, here are some general recommendations on steps you can take after a parking accident:
- Put your safety and well-being first. After a parking lot accident, prioritize your safety and call 911 to get medical help and create an official record. Your well-being is the most important consideration.
- Gather substantial evidence to establish liability. Take multiple photos of the scene, vehicle positions, damages, and relevant factors. Document evidence carefully to strengthen your claim.
- Report the accident and preserve records. File a report of the accident with the property owner or management, especially if it happened in a private parking lot. Create an incident report for a formal record. If there are surveillance cameras nearby, request the preservation of relevant footage to support your case.
- Document injuries and scene details. Document injuries with photos, as they provide crucial evidence for your claim. Include images of the scene for context.
- Collect witness information for evidentiary support. Collect the names, phone numbers, and addresses of witnesses to the accident. Their testimonies can help clarify the sequence of events and establish liability.
- Exercise caution in statements and agreements. Exercise caution and avoid discussing fault in parking lot accidents without consulting an attorney, as recorded statements may affect your compensation.
- Seek legal guidance and support from lawyers for parking lot accidents in California. For expert legal support in your parking lot accident case, contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 today. Our car accident lawyers will ensure your rights are protected and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait — taking action now can greatly impact your claim’s outcome.
Reporting My Parking Lot Accident In California
- Motor Vehicle Accident — If anyone is killed or injured in a crash, you must call 911 and notify the police at the accident scene, as required by California law. Even for minor accidents, calling the police can be useful in obtaining an official police report. However, please note that police may not respond to minor accidents in some privately owned parking lots. If someone was killed or injured and law enforcement was not present at the scene, promptly report the collision in writing to the police or California Highway Patrol (CHP).
- Other Types of Accidents — If you were injured in a slip-and-fall or other pedestrian accident that does not involve a motor vehicle, immediately report the incident to the parking lot owner or manager. This can be done in person, by phone, or in writing. If the incident occurred in a public parking lot or involved significant injury, file a report with the local police or CHP.
After the accident, it is crucial to report the incident to your insurance company, regardless of who is at fault. Most insurers require you to notify them, even if you don’t plan to file a claim. Prompt notification helps ensure a swift resolution for repairing your car and covering medical bills. It’s important to note that California insurers cannot raise rates for accidents that aren’t deemed your fault. Reporting the accident is the best way to protect your rights following a parking lot crash.
By following these steps, you can ensure the proper handling of the accident and safeguard your rights.
Potentially Liable Parties In Parking Lot Accidents In California
Determining liability in parking lot accidents in California involves examining the incident’s specifics. Liability can fall on drivers and property owners.
- Drivers must exercise caution, especially in congested areas, and may bear primary responsibility for accidents. However, other negligent parties could also be liable if they contributed to the incident.
- Property owners are responsible for maintaining safe parking areas, which includes ensuring they are well-designed, clearly marked, and adequately lit. They must also keep the premises free from hazards like damaged pavement or slippery conditions. Failing to meet these standards can result in the property owner being held accountable for any injuries or damages.
You might be wondering, “Do I need a personal lawyer to handle my case?” While it’s not mandatory to hire a lawyer, it can be highly beneficial, especially in more complex situations. Parking lot accident lawyers can help you navigate the legal process, communicate with insurance companies, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your damages. They can also assist in handling any potential disputes regarding liability, especially if the at-fault party is unidentified or has no insurance.
California’s Statute of Limitations For Parking Lot Accident Claims
You have a limited time to file a lawsuit after an incident, known as the statute of limitations. For parking lot accidents in California, this is two years from the date of the accident. If you don’t file within this period, you can no longer sue. For minors, the two-year period starts when they turn eighteen. For government claims, you must file within six months.
Our California parking lot accident attorneys can help ensure you meet these deadlines, navigate the legal complexities, gather necessary evidence, and advocate on your behalf to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Parking Lot Accident Statistics in California
Every year, parking lots and garage structures see tens of thousands of crashes, leading to hundreds of fatalities and thousands of injuries. While many drivers are cautious on the road, a surprising number of parking lot accidents transpire due to drivers letting their guard down in these supposedly low-risk environments.
Based on a public opinion poll conducted by the National Safety Council (NSC), here are some concerning behaviors observed among drivers in parking lots:
- 66% admitted to making phone calls.
- 63% reported programming GPS systems.
- 56% confessed to texting.
- 52% used social media.
- 50% sent or received emails.
- 49% took photos or watched videos.
These statistics highlight the prevalence of distracted driving in parking lots and underscore the importance of staying focused to ensure safety for all.
Furthermore, the NSC found that teens (59%) were more prone to personal grooming than adults (53%) driving in parking lots. However, teens were less likely to be on the phone (60% vs. 66%).
When people envision collisions in a parking lot, they often imagine minor incidents like fender benders, bumper scratches, or small dents. However, it’s important to recognize that a notable number of parking lot and garage accidents lead to fatalities. As reported by the NSC, there are over 50,000 car accidents annually in parking lots and garages across the United States. These incidents led to more than 500 fatalities and 60,000 injuries each year.
While 500 deaths may seem comparatively small in the broader context, this statistic translates to more than one person falling victim to a parking lot accident every day. Especially during the busy holiday season, drivers and pedestrians tend to be distracted by their long to-do lists, adding to the rush as they try to get from one place to another. Just think about it — someone’s life gets cut short while running errands, shopping, or having a night out. It’s a sad reality that shows how risky parking lots can be.
This is where the expertise and guidance of parking lot accident attorneys are needed. At Arash Law, we will prioritize you, and you can rest easy while we work on your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
During What Time Of Day Do Most Parking Lot Accidents Take Place?
Most parking lot accidents happen during the daytime, particularly during lunchtime and after work hours. These periods see increased parking lot activity, leading to more crowded and bustling conditions.
Which Demographic Is Most Frequently Involved In Parking Lot Accidents?
Young drivers, specifically those aged 16 to 24, are the most commonly involved in parking lot accidents. This is often attributed to their limited driving experience and potentially less familiarity with the spatial awareness needed for driving in tight parking spaces.
Can You Sue If Someone Hits Your Parked Car In California?
Yes, you can sue if someone hits your parked car in California. You can take legal action to seek compensation for damages such as car repairs, medical expenses, and other related costs. It’s important to gather as much evidence as possible, such as photos of the damage and any witness statements, and to report the incident to the police immediately.
Call The Parking Lot Accident Lawyers California Relies On!
Parking lot accidents can happen to anyone at any time. In the aftermath of an unfortunate parking lot accident resulting in the injury or loss of a loved one, the team of compassionate and skilled California parking lot accident lawyers at Arash Law is here to assist.
Led by Arash Khorsandi, the Arash Law injury attorneys have successfully recovered over $750 million for clients facing similar challenges. We extend our legal services to victims and their families in various California areas, including San Francisco, Riverside, San Jose, San Diego, Sacramento, Sherman Oaks, and beyond. Our team is proficient in multiple languages, such as Spanish, to serve our diverse clientele better.
Experiencing the injury or loss of a loved one is deeply traumatic. When dealing with the consequences of a parking space accident, you shouldn’t have to navigate legal issues alone. Our California parking lot accident lawyers are prepared to handle these complexities on your behalf.
If you’ve been affected by a fatal parking lot accident, reach out to our office today. You can contact us at (888) 488-1391 or connect with us online to schedule a free, no-obligation review of your case. In this challenging time, let our compassionate yet assertive legal team advocate for your rights and provide the support you need.
