When most people think of car accidents, high-speed collisions on highways or busy intersections often come to mind. However, parking lots are surprisingly also common sites for accidents.
For most people, these areas are generally associated with slower speeds. However, their congestion, tight spaces and mix of pedestrians and vehicles create unique hazards. In fact, in-depth research into car accidents has revealed that one in five accidents occurs in a parking lot. Understanding the types of car accidents that occur in these spaces is crucial for drivers and pedestrians who need to navigate parking lots safely.
Rear-end collisions
Vehicles crashing into the back of other vehicles is a common phenomenon in parking lots. Rear-end collisions are prevalent because most drivers in parking lots tailgate the vehicle ahead. This is partly due to the tight spacing in most parking lots. When the driver ahead stops suddenly, the driver following too closely is likely to rear-end the vehicle ahead.
Rear-end collisions often happen in parking lots when the driver ahead is looking for an open space to park and may abruptly stop upon spotting one. Distracted driving, such as being on the phone, increases the likelihood that the driver following too closely will crash into the back of the vehicle ahead.
Backing-up accidents
These types of collisions can take place when a driver is in the process of reversing out of a parking space. Accidents happen because the driver either doesn’t notice oncoming traffic or fails to check for pedestrians. With cars parked in tight rows, visibility is often obstructed, making it harder to see approaching vehicles or people. These accidents are especially dangerous for pedestrians, as individuals on foot may not always be visible in a car’s rearview mirror or backup camera.
Two cars backing up simultaneously
What are the odds that two drivers will simultaneously reverse out of their parking lots and collide? Well, it turns out that this is a common phenomenon in parking lots. When two vehicles are moving in reverse, the drivers may not anticipate the other’s movements. These collisions are generally low-impact but can still result in damages or disputes over who is at fault.
Many parking lot accidents stem from impatience, distractions or lack of awareness. Some of these causes are legally actionable. Drivers and pedestrians who encounter parking lot accidents can enlist legal guidance to determine if they qualify for compensation.