California Parking Lot Accidents

Parking lots can be very dangerous places for pedestrians and accidents may happen when you least expect them. Those who walk through parking lots often find that a parking lot is not a very pedestrian-friendly place. Drivers often move through parking lots at a higher rate of speed than they should, and distractions are common.


Parking Lot Accident Statistics

Parking Lot Crash

According to the National Safety Council, each year there are more than 50,000 accidents in garage structures and parking lots. More than 60,000 people are injured in this way and there are over 500 deaths.

The fact that people are driving at a slow rate of speed in a parking lot doesn’t lessen the danger to pedestrians. Driving slowly may lead to a false sense of security and causes people to think it’s ok to text while driving or talk on their cell phones. A public opinion poll taken by the National Safety Council revealed that over 60 percent of people polled said they would make calls or program GPS systems while driving through a parking lot.


Parking Lot Dangers for Pedestrians

Parking Lot Dangers

Distracted driving isn’t the only thing that makes walking through a parking lot dangerous for pedestrians. Accidents may happen because a pedestrian slips and falls in front of an oncoming car, which could be caused by a variety of reasons including wet or icy roads.

Other hazards that drivers may encounter in parking lots that may cause an accident include:

  • Potholes
  • Poor lighting
  • Inadequate pavement markings
  • Puddles or ice
  • Debris
  • Not enough signage
  • Other drivers who may be negligent or aggressive

Large parking lots can be especially dangerous to pedestrians who may have to navigate around quite a few moving vehicles on the way to their own. Whenever possible, pedestrians should try to park in well-lit spots that are as close to the store or another place of business they are visiting.


Safety Tips for Pedestrians

Pedestrian Safety Tips

When you are walking in a parking lot, you can’t assume drivers are going to be paying attention or driving safely. You have to take responsibility for staying safe to the best of your ability.

Some safety tips to keep in mind include:

  • Stay hypervigilant at all times. This means you should avoid being focused on your phone or plugged in listening to music which drowns out your surroundings.
  • Treat a parking lot like a busy street. Look all around before proceeding, and stay on sidewalks whenever possible.
  • Don’t assume drivers can see you. Even drivers that are trying to be completely responsible may have the sun in their eyes or have difficulty seeing you in poor lighting. If you can see or hear a vehicle coming, get out of the way.
  • Walk in groups whenever you can.
  • Keep control of children and strollers. Avoid walking in the middle of the parking lot aisles. Elderly people may also need assistance recognizing an impending danger such as a speeding driver.
  • Don’t try to race in front of cars assuming you can beat them.

If You Are Injured in a Parking Lot Accident

Injured In A Parking Accident

Even when you do everything you can to be careful, accidents happen. If you have been injured in a California parking lot accident caused by the negligence or aggression of a driver, an expert in the field of personal injury law can help you understand your rights and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Contact Kuvara Law Firm by filling out the contact form on this page. One of our skilled lawyers will get back to you very soon to discuss what happened and to find out how we can help.

California personal injury attorney Neal Kuvara is the founder of Kuvara Law Firm in San Rafael. Protecting the rights of injured victims for more than 50 years, Neal and his team have provided top-notch legal services to more than 20,000 clients, helping them to recover millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts. His passion for justice and commitment to his clients have earned Neal a reputation as a proven leader in the field of personal injury law in California.

Years of Experience: More than 50 years
California Registration Status: Active
Bar & Court Admissions: California State Bar, U.S. District Court Northern District of California