Parking lot accidents, despite often occurring at low speeds, can result in severe injuries and significant damages. Drivers who neglect traffic laws may back into pedestrians or collide with other vehicles, causing distressing consequences. If you have recently sustained injuries from a parking lot accident in San Jose, seeking compensation from the responsible party is crucial. An experienced auto collision attorney can guide you through the complexities of such cases and help you secure the compensation you need to focus on your recovery. Call Valero Law Group to learn more.
How Parking Lot Accidents Occur
Parking lot wrecks in San Jose can happen unexpectedly and in various scenarios. Whether in bustling parking lots near stores like Foodmaxx and Safeway or quieter areas such as those around Hyde Park apartments, accidents can occur in numerous situations, including:
- Limited visibility while reversing from parking spots
- Attention diverted by phone use, searching for parking spots, or other distractions
- Neglecting to yield the right-of-way at intersections
- Inadequate signage, unclear lane markings, or confusing layouts
- Exceeding speed limits in parking lots, especially around tight corners or pedestrian crosswalks
- Misjudging the angle required to enter a parking space
While many parking lot accidents are minor, some can result in severe injuries and damages that may reach hundreds of thousands of dollars. In such cases, consulting with a lawyer can be essential to obtaining justice and appropriate compensation.
Determining Liability in Parking Lot Accidents
The responsibility for a San Jose parking lot accident depends on various factors. Identifying the liable parties is crucial for pursuing a successful claim. Your attorney can help determine who is at fault, which may include:
Drivers
Most parking lot accidents are caused by drivers who are distracted, tailgating, or ignoring traffic signs. If a driver’s negligence leads to an accident, you can file a claim with their insurance company. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may need to pursue a lawsuit against them directly.
Property Owners
Parking lot owners have a duty to maintain safe conditions on their property. If accidents occur due to neglected maintenance, such as potholes or inadequate signage, you can file a lawsuit against the property owner. In the case of public parking lots, such as those at Carnegie Branch Library, the local government may be liable, and the process for filing claims against the government differs. Working with a knowledgeable legal team is essential to navigate these specific procedures.
Pedestrians
Generally, pedestrians are not at fault for parking lot accidents, even if sidewalks and crosswalks are present. However, a pedestrian may be considered partially responsible for a collision in rare instances.
Navigate San Jose Parking Lot Accidents With Valero Law Group
If you have been injured in a parking lot accident in San Jose, pursuing a claim against the responsible party is your right. While parking lot accidents may seem straightforward, proving negligence can be complex. To enhance your chances of obtaining fair compensation, it is crucial to work with an experienced attorney.
At Valero Law Group, we bring decades of experience to help individuals who have been injured in parking lot accidents recover the damages they deserve. Our dedicated attorneys offer personalized attention and aggressive representation to protect your rights. We understand the challenges you face and are committed to supporting you throughout the legal process.
Contact us today for a consultation.