When most people think about car accidents, they assume they happen on the road. However, many accidents also occur right in the parking lot. This can be incredibly dangerous for both drivers and pedestrians. There are several ways accidents can occur in parking lots, so it is crucial that you know what to look for. The following are some common issues that cause parking lot accidents.

Common Hazards in Parking Lots

There are several hazards that are unique to parking lots. Poor lighting, tight or sharp turns, or parking lots that are not maintained properly can cause accidents. Parking lanes that are not marked or are unclear can also produce accidents. Lack of speed bumps, signage, or drivers that do not adhere to signage are additional factors that have hand in causing accidents in parking lots which could lead to lawsuits.

Driver Negligence

A driver's negligence when driving in a parking lot can have catastrophic impacts, particularly for pedestrians. If a driver is distracted, is speeding through the lot, failing to enter or exit at the proper areas, or yield to other drivers and pedestrians, a serious accident and injury can occur, necessitating the need for a lawyer.

Drivers have to make sure that they are fully paying attention when driving in a parking lot, especially those in shopping centers. You will never know if a child will dart out into the roadway or a car is coming around a sharp corner. Reducing distractions and driving slowly will significantly reduce the likelihood of an accident.

Pedestrian Negligence

Pedestrians have to be just as careful in parking lots so they are not injured in any way. Always remain alert. Do not walk in a parking lot with your earbuds in, or at least pause your music until you reach your destination. Not doing so will prohibit you from possibly hearing an oncoming vehicle or another person warning you of danger in your path. 

You also need to ensure you are walking in the proper crosswalks where other drivers are required to yield to you. Also, make certain that you are holding your children tightly so they do not get away from you and risk getting hurt by oncoming vehicles.

If you are injured in a parking lot accident, whether you are the driver or a pedestrian, it is important that you seek treatment immediately. If you intend to file a lawsuit, you will need to contact a personal injury attorney such as Gelman Gelman Wiskow & McCarthy LLC who specializes in personal injury to help you with your case. Gather all your evidence, including your medical records, recordings from parking lot cameras, and anything else that will prove your case.