Key Takeaways:
- Crowded lots such as Granite Run in Media see frequent parking lot crashes, since so many cars, carts, and pedestrians share tight space.
- “Fault” in a parking lot crash usually comes down to right-of-way and backing patterns.
- Property owners can share blame when poor lighting, striping, or upkeep contributed to the crash.
When Delaware County car accident lawyers consult with clients about parking lot crashes, the key questions focus on liability and who pays for the damages. The answer usually depends on right-of-way rules, which driver was backing up, and how well the lot was maintained. Property owners are often held responsible, as are drivers.
How Common Are Parking Lot Crashes in Delco? [EK1] [RD2]
Crowded lots such as The Promenade at Granite Run or the plazas along West Chester Pike see frequent fender benders, since so many cars, carts, and pedestrians share tight space. These crashes result from tight turns, blind spots, and distracted shoppers. A shopping center accident Delaware County shoppers face can also start with two cars backing out at the same time or a driver cutting through empty spaces instead of using the aisle.
Who Has the Right of Way in a Parking Lot?
Cars driving through the main travel lane usually have the right of way over vehicles pulling out of a space. A driver backing out must yield to moving traffic, while through traffic still needs to watch for pedestrians and carts. Picture a shopper walking behind a row of cars: everyone on the move needs to stay alert, not just the driver in reverse.
Who Is at Fault in Common Parking Lot Scenarios?
To determine who is at fault in a parking lot collision, PA car accident lawyers investigate who had the right of way and other evidence. They see common patterns:
- Two drivers were backing out at the same time, which often splits fault between them.
- A driver cutting through empty spaces instead of using the aisle, which weighs against that driver.
Backing-out accident fault-based claims are common because reversing drivers have less visibility than those driving forward.
Does the Property Owner Share Liability?
Sometimes, yes. Property owners must keep lots reasonably safe, with working lights, visible lane markings, and prompt pothole repairs. For instance, a Springfield Mall parking accident caused by a broken light near an entrance could point to owner liability alongside driver fault, especially if the hazard played a real role in the crash.
What Drivers Should Do After a Parking Lot Crash
Drivers should move to a safe spot, check for injuries, and photograph both vehicles along with nearby lighting and lane markings. Getting contact information from the other driver and any witnesses matters, since private lots do not always draw a police response. Reporting the crash to an insurer soon afterward helps preserve details before memories fade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can two drivers split fault for a parking lot crash?
Yes, Pennsylvania law lets fault be divided between drivers based on each one’s share of the blame.
Does Pennsylvania require a police report for a parking lot accident?
Not always, since many private lots fall outside routine police response. Still, that evidence helps establish parking lot accident fault that PA insurers cannot easily dispute.
How long do drivers have to file a car accident lawsuit in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania generally allows two years from the crash date to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Hurt in a Delco Shopping Center Parking Lot Accident? Let Our Experienced Delaware County Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Sort Out Your Claim
For legal help with a parking lot accident in our area, contact our Delaware County car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. To schedule an initial consultation, call us today at 610-565-3700 or complete our online form. With office locations in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we proudly serve clients in the surrounding areas.