Car accidents can happen even when vehicles are parked. Parking lots are a common area for accidents to occur, and they involve a different set of rules than regular road mishaps. Parking lots are considered private property, which means that it’s the owner’s responsibility to set and enforce the rules. It’s important to know what to do in case you’re involved in a parking lot collision in order to understand your rights and options. If your car has been hit in a parking lot, here are some practical and important steps to follow.
Address Injuries
If you or anyone else has sustained a severe injury because of a parking lot incident, call emergency services immediately. In an instance where minor injuries have occurred, you should still call the police so they can record the incident.
Assess Damage
If the damage looks like it’s over $1,000, you will need to notify the police. If the accident appears to be minor, you should obtain insurance and identification from the other driver. If the other driver is not present, leave a note on their dashboard with your contact information to avoid a potential hit-and-run claim.
Record Information About the Accident
Take pictures of the damage, from all angles, including the parking lot and surrounding cars, to outline the scenario. Be sure to note all the of the details about what occurred, including what you were doing at the time of the accident, the speed you were going, the location, time of day, and what you saw. Be as specific as possible as you may need to relay this information to your insurance provider and authorities.
Move Your Car
If you’re in the way of traffic, move the car over once you have taken pictures so it does not impede other drivers or pedestrians.
Collect Information
Collect information from anyone involved in the accident, such as their name, address, telephone number, and email. Also, record their license plate number and insurance information and talk to any witnesses to record their contact details in case you will need to call upon them in the future for a statement.
Call Your Insurance Provider
You are required to report all collisions to your insurance provider. Immediately call your insurance provider and provide all of the details including the information about everyone involved. The insurance company will provide you with information regarding what to do next.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
When there are no witnesses and it’s your word against someone else’s, you want to make sure that your rights are protected. Although charges are not usually laid, there may be laws that apply depending on the type of accident and who is at fault. It’s important to contact an accident lawyer who can help you determine who is truly at fault, along with the laws that may apply to the accident.
When it comes to parking lot accidents, make sure you follow the correct steps for notifying the proper authorities and your insurance company. If you’re not sure who is at fault, contact a lawyer who can help you with your claim and get you the justice and compensation that you deserve. Reach out to Zuber Brioux today for a no-obligation consultation.