When you pull into a parking lot, you may relax because you have arrived at your destination. However, parking lot accidents in Midland are common and can be very dangerous. If someone else’s negligent actions in a parking lot cause you harm, a local car accident attorney could help you seek fair compensation. At Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, we could offer you the legal guidance you need to make a successful claim.
Driving in a Parking Lot
The basic rules of the road apply in parking lots, but there are some aspects drivers should be more aware of.
Speeding in a Parking Lot
When pulling into a parking lot, reducing speed is essential. If there is a posted speed limit, drivers should not exceed it. If a speed limit is not posted, then the suggested speed is no higher than 15 miles per hour. Motorists are responsible for entering, moving through, and exiting a parking lot safely, and this involves carefully watching their speed.
Right of Way
The rules that apply on the road regarding right of way also apply in parking lots. The motorist who is already in the lane has the right of way, and anyone who is pulling out of a parking space must allow them to pass before proceeding.
When pulling into a parking lot, motorists must follow all posted traffic signs. If there are no posted signs, those entering the parking lot must yield to any drivers already there.
Distracted Driving
Every driver using a parking lot has a duty to be aware of other road users and take the precautions necessary to avoid collisions. There are rules that govern the flow of vehicles in parking lots, but you cannot guarantee all other motorists will follow them. It is therefore best to drive carefully and ensure you are always paying attention.
Pedestrian Collisions
Due to their vulnerability, pedestrians always have the right of way in parking lots. When a driver enters a parking lot, they should keep their speed low, be aware that they are likely to encounter pedestrians, and prepare to yield to anyone on foot.
When navigating a parking lot, it is important to remember that some drivers may act carelessly. Reducing your speed and maintaining awareness of other road users could reduce the risk posed by these drivers. However, despite your precautions, someone’s reckless driving could result in you sustaining injuries as another driver or as a pedestrian in a Midland parking lot collision.
What Can You Do if Another Driver Injures You?
You may be a careful driver, but other motorists do not always exercise the same caution. Impaired and distracted driving can lead to crashes in Midland parking lots. If someone’s negligent driving causes you injury, you could seek compensation for losses including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Future losses
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Property damage
Speeds tend to be lower in parking lot accidents, but you could still face significant losses due to serious injury. Additionally, some drivers exceed the speed limit and drive recklessly to get a certain parking spot or exit the lot as quickly as possible, increasing the risk of them causing significant harm.
Discuss Your Car Crash Claim With a Midland Attorney Today
Parking lot accidents in Midland are often very serious, potentially producing TBIs or spinal cord injuries in the most severe cases. If another driver’s negligence causes you to sustain injuries, we could build a solid claim on your behalf and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact our personal injury attorneys today for more information.
