Parking lots in and around Arizona are often hives of activity. Unfortunately, these are areas where vehicle collisions are not uncommon, including vehicle versus vehicle incidents as well as vehicle versus pedestrian incidents. Parking lot accidents should be thoroughly investigated, and injury victims may need to work with a car accident attorney in the Phoenix area to recover compensation for their losses.

Parking Lot Accidents in Phoenix

Common Causes of Parking Lot Accidents

Parking lot accidents happen due to a variety of reasons, many of which are preventable. The most common causes include:

Distracted driving. Drivers often engage in distractions such as texting, adjusting their GPS, or talking to passengers, which diverts their attention from their surroundings. Even a tiny lapse in focus can lead to a collision in a parking lot filled with pedestrians and other vehicles.
Failure to yield. Misunderstandings about right-of-way rules in parking lots are a frequent cause of collisions. For example, drivers may fail to yield to vehicles in the main thoroughfare or to pedestrians at marked crosswalks.
Backing out without checking. Reversing out of parking spaces is a risky maneuver if drivers do not adequately check for oncoming traffic or pedestrians. Many rear-end and side-impact accidents occur during this action.
Excessive speed. Speeding in parking lots, which are designed for low-speed travel, greatly reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
Poor visibility. Obstacles like parked vehicles, poorly marked lanes, and inadequate lighting can hinder visibility, leading to accidents.

Who Gets the Blame for a Parking Lot Accident?

Determining fault in an Arizona parking lot crash depends on several factors. Arizona follows a comparative fault system, meaning each party’s degree of responsibility is assessed to allocate damages. Some common scenarios include:

Rear-end collisions. The driver who strikes another vehicle from behind is typically at fault unless the leading vehicle suddenly stops without reason.
Failure to yield. Drivers entering or exiting parking spaces may bear responsibility if they fail to yield to vehicles already in the thoroughfare.
Pedestrian accidents. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in designated crosswalks or walking areas.

What Can You Do After a Parking Lot Crash?

If you are involved in a parking lot accident, follow these steps to protect your rights and build a strong claim:

Check for injuries. Ensure everyone involved receives prompt medical attention.
Contact law enforcement. While police may not respond to minor accidents in private parking lots, they may still file a report if injuries or significant property damage occur.
Document the scene. Take photographs of the vehicles, any visible injuries, skid marks, and other relevant details. This evidence can be crucial for your case.
Exchange information. Collect the names, contact information, and insurance details of all parties involved.
Notify your insurance company. Promptly report the incident to your insurer, providing accurate and complete information.
Consult an attorney. An experienced Arizona car accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims and pursue compensation.

How an Attorney Can Help

Dealing with parking lot accident claims can be challenging, especially when fault is disputed. A skilled Phoenix injury attorney can assist by:

Investigating the accident. Lawyers gather evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements, to establish liability.
Negotiating with insurers. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. An attorney ensures you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Representing you in court. If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer can advocate for your rights in court.

Contact a Phoenix Car Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a parking lot accident, you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone. The experienced attorneys at Sargon Law Group can help you seek justice and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a consultation as soon as you can. Let us put our expertise to work for you.