Unfortunately, parking lot accidents are quite a common occurrence in America. In fact, an estimated one out every five auto accidents takes place in a parking lot. Furthermore, 14 percent of all insurance claims are for collisions in parking lots, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA). If you suffered a crash in a parking lot, a Bolingbrook parking lot accident lawyer may be able to help.
Parking lots frequently give drivers a false sense of security since they are areas where cars typically operate at a much slower pace. However, these accidents could cause injuries to both drivers and pedestrians along with significant vehicle and other property damage just like auto accidents that happen elsewhere. Contact a dedicated car accident attorney today to see what options may be available in your case.
Causes of Parking Lot Accidents
Each parking lot generally has different safety issues that may pose a risk of injury. However, there frequently are some common contributors to accidents that may occur in these areas, such as:
- Drivers watching for an empty parking spot and not focusing on other surroundings
- Blind zones from backing out next to a vehicle that is obstructing the driver’s view
- Reckless driving and confusion created by ignorance of traffic laws
- Congested parking lots with many vehicles and pedestrians entering and exiting
- Non-compliance with posted signage
- Dim lighting
- Accumulated snow and debris
Establishing a Parking Lot Accident Case
In order to legally establish a parking lot accident case, several points typically must be proven in accordance with 735 ILCS 5/2-1116. First, a Bolingbrook parking lot accident attorney generally must establish on behalf of their client that the driver of the other vehicle is at fault for the accident.
In Illinois, this is usually accomplished by establishing that the other driver was negligent in their actions. In legal terms, a person acting negligently may not be exercising the same care a reasonable person would have used under similar circumstances. Failure to follow the rules of the road posted signage, or even common sense when driving could be used as proof that the defendant might have acted negligently.
Additionally, the plaintiff along with their lawyer may need to prove they were injured directly as a result of the defendant’s negligent actions. Finally, they may need to prove they were injured or suffered other damages in the accident. Most of the time, this is done by providing medical records and bills to demonstrate tangible physical and financial losses.
These three points may seem simple and easy to prove at first glance. However, they could become quite complex when the defense builds their case, especially since the burden of proof in a civil case generally relies on the plaintiff and their attorney. Speaking with a parking lot lawyer in Bolingbrook about the various elements of a negligence case is often a good first step towards filing a lawsuit successfully.
Guidance of a Bolingbrook Parking Lot Accident Attorney
Even if your accident involved low speeds, it is generally a myth that private parking lot accidents do not have any legal consequences. Significant physical and property damage may still occur in accidents that happen in parking lots, which often means cases centered around such accidents could still be heard by civil courts in Illinois. A reliable Bolingbrook parking lot accident lawyer or car accident lawyer could be the ally you need to get compensation for your damages, so reach out today to schedule a consultation.
