Car accidents can be scary and confusing. When they occur in a parking lot, it can be even more confusing. Because it’s private property, many people mistakenly believe it’s different than if it happened on a road. But in Georgia, it should be treated just like any other accident, starting with summoning medical assistance if anyone is hurt. After that, here’s what you need to know.
Backing Out Accidents Are the Most Common
In a parking lot, the most common accident is the backing out accident. This is when one or more cars is backing out of a parking space and collides with another vehicle, object, or pedestrian. These accidents happen because it is more difficult to see clearly what’s behind you and to each side of you as you back out. And in some cases, of course, the driver doesn’t look behind them at all before backing out.
The Driver in Reverse Is Almost Always at Fault
Typically, the police will not issue a ticket or offer a conclusion about the accident and who’s at fault because the accident took place on private property. While the driver may not be ticketed, however, the driver in reverse is almost always found to be the one at fault. This is because they were the vehicle in motion when the accident occurred.
What if two vehicles were backing out and hit each other? Then the fault is shared between both drivers.
You Need to Call the Police and Possibly a Lawyer
Unless the accident is a minor fender bender with little to no damage, you need to call the police. Though there may not be a ticket issued, the police will write up a report of what happened which can help determine fault when filing with insurance or in litigation.
This is especially important if you suspect you may be injured. The police report will help back up your claim so it’s not your word against the other driver’s. You should also call a personal injury attorney if you suspect you may be injured. They’ll help you navigate the process to best ensure your injuries are paid for by the other driver and/or their insurance.
You Should Gather Any Evidence You Can
Obviously, if you are seriously injured, you should seek medical attention first. But if your injuries aren’t that serious, or if there are friends or family with you who can do it, you need to gather as much evidence as you can. Get the name and insurance information of the other driver, along with their phone number, a vehicle description and license plate number. Get the names of any passengers and any other witnesses to the accident.
Take pictures of the vehicles and their damage at the scene with your cell phone. Use it to record video statements of any witnesses. If the parking lot has video cameras, contact the lot’s owner to see if you can get a copy of the video showing the accident.
A parking lot accident may feel different than any other accident but it’s not. You can be just as seriously injured or have serious damage to your vehicle as any other accident. Knowing these simple things should make navigating a parking lot car accident a little easier.
