Involved In An Accident In A Parking Lot? Here’s What To Do

This article about accidents with your personal car is posted in collaboration with an outside sponsorship client. The opinions and information contained within do not necessarily represent Frontstretch and its staff.

Parking lot accidents occur more frequently than one might assume.

In the U.S. alone, over 50,000 crashes occur in parking lots and garage structures annually. While these crashes tend to be less severe, the aftermath can be overwhelming. It’s imperative to stay calm to handle the situation effectively, make informed decisions, and ensure the best possible outcome.

Stay Safe and Assess the Situation

If an accident occurs, your first step should be safety-oriented. If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to a safe location, avoiding further hazards. Then, activate your hazard lights to signal others of the incident. After ensuring safety, assess the situation for any injuries. Even minor collisions can lead to soft tissue injuries, which might not be immediately apparent.

Document the Scene

Documentation is crucial in resolving any potential disputes. Use your smartphone to capture photos of the accident scene, focusing on the vehicles’ damage and their positions. Additionally, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver involved. If there were eyewitnesses, politely ask for their contact details as they could be invaluable in corroborating your account of what happened.

Notify the Relevant Parties

Although parking lot accidents might seem trivial, it’s important to call the police, especially if there’s significant damage or personal injury. The official police report can be a valuable piece of evidence going forward. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible, providing an honest account of what went wrong. If you’ve incurred injuries, don’t neglect to seek medical attention immediately; your health always comes first. Of course, you shouldn’t forget to find a skilled auto accident lawyer in addition to everything we listed. 

Preserve Evidence

Preserving all accident-related evidence can help substantiate your claim. This includes the police report, photographs, medical records, repair bills, and other relevant documentation. In case of medical treatment, maintain a thorough record of all your expenses. Furthermore, any communication you have with insurance companies, witnesses, or the other driver should be saved and organized for easy reference.

Seek Legal Advice, if Needed

Knowing your rights and responsibilities in a parking lot accident is crucial. If you’re unsure, consult with a personal injury attorney—they can guide you through the legal maze and help protect your interests. Cooperate fully with your insurance company and, if needed, your attorney. Remember, each case is unique; don’t assume the rules for roadway accidents apply to parking lot incidents without seeking professional advice.

Bottom Line

By staying calm, documenting the scene, notifying relevant parties, preserving evidence, and seeking legal advice when necessary, you can effectively navigate the aftermath of a parking lot accident. While the immediate aftermath may be stressful, careful handling of the situation can lead to a smooth resolution. Stay safe, act responsibly, and remember that help is available if you need it.