Unless you rely on public transportation, you probably make use of parking lots regularly. Owing to our cultural reliance on automobiles, parking lots dot the American landscape. It’s easy to zone out as we walk to or from our cars in such places. But danger lurks behind every car. Pedestrian parking lot accidents are prevalent, and their consequences can be catastrophic. Here are some facts about parking lot accidents involving pedestrians.
In parking lots, danger lurks behind every car. Here’s an overview of pedestrian parking lot accidents.
What Causes Pedestrian Parking Lot Accidents?
There is no such thing as a pedestrian parking lot accident that was unavoidable. In all instances, they involve some degree of human error. Here are a few of their most common causes:
- Not looking while backing up. Any driver should be well acquainted with the necessity of looking before backing up out of a parking space. Still, some drivers skip this step when they are in a hurry or just due to sheer laziness. The onus ultimately falls on the driver, but pedestrians can do their part too by looking out for cars that are backing up.
- Distraction. Never underestimate the perils of distracted driving. Distraction is an especially pertinent issue in parking lots because drivers tend to fuss with the radio, the AC, and their seatbelts while pulling out of them. All of this needs to be resolved before they leave their parking spot.
- Looking for a space. Too often, drivers’ minds are occupied by searching for a parking space while in parking lots. This is understandable, but they can’t let this overshadow their vigilance in looking out for pedestrians, who do not stand out nearly so starkly as automobiles.
As you can see, the causes of pedestrian parking lot accidents can almost always be attributed to the negligence of the driver.
Consequences
Vehicle-on-vehicle car crashes in parking lots tend to be minor. This is not the case with pedestrian parking lot accidents. Pedestrians do not have the protection of a car to absorb the impact of a moving vehicle. It follows that many such incidents qualify as catastrophic accidents. This legal term refers to instances where the victims’ injuries have a long-standing impact on their ability to lead a fulfilling life.
Here are some examples of catastrophic injuries resulting from pedestrian parking lot accidents:
- Disfigurement
- Injuries to the spinal cord
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Nerve damage
If you or a loved one has sustained such an injury yourself, we understand the pain you feel. We know that your pain is amplified by the knowledge that it was caused by someone else’s negligence. And we think you deserve justice. If you’re considering a lawsuit to help with the financial and psychological costs of recovery, we’re here to help.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, for more information and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.