Parking Lot Accident Settlements: Fault Rules and Compensation

Parking lot accidents are surprisingly common, accounting for approximately 20 percent of all car accidents. While they typically occur at low speeds, they can still cause significant injuries, particularly whiplash, back injuries, and head injuries. Understanding fault rules and settlement expectations for parking lot accidents can help you navigate the claims process effectively.

Common Types of Parking Lot Accidents

Backing accidents occur when a driver backs out of a parking space into another vehicle or pedestrian. These are the most common type of parking lot accident. Two cars backing out simultaneously happens when two vehicles back out of opposing parking spaces at the same time. Right-of-way disputes occur at parking lot intersections where drivers disagree about who has priority. Pedestrian accidents in parking lots are common because pedestrians and vehicles share the same space. Door ding accidents occur when a car door is opened into an adjacent vehicle.

Fault Rules in Parking Lots

Parking lot fault rules differ from regular road rules in several ways. The driver backing out of a space is almost always at fault because they have a duty to yield to traffic in the travel lane. At parking lot intersections, the driver on the smaller aisle must yield to the driver on the main thoroughfare. When two cars back out simultaneously, fault is typically shared equally. Pedestrians generally have the right of way in parking lots, but they must also exercise reasonable care.

Average Settlement Amounts

Minor injuries from parking lot accidents settle for $5,000 to $20,000. Moderate injuries such as whiplash settle for $15,000 to $50,000. Serious injuries requiring medical treatment settle for $30,000 to $150,000. Pedestrian injuries in parking lots settle for $25,000 to $200,000 or more depending on severity.

Challenges with Parking Lot Claims

Parking lot accidents present unique challenges. Surveillance footage from parking lot cameras can be crucial evidence but may be overwritten quickly. Witness availability may be limited. Fault disputes are common because both drivers may claim the other was not paying attention. Low-speed impacts may lead insurance companies to minimize injury claims.

Conclusion

Parking lot accident settlements range from $5,000 to $200,000 depending on the type of accident and severity of injuries. The key to a successful claim is gathering evidence quickly, particularly surveillance footage, and documenting your injuries thoroughly.

Use our free settlement calculator to estimate what your parking lot accident case might be worth.