Parking lots can be deceptively dangerous, leading to unexpected and potentially severe injuries. Recently, we discussed ice hazards in parking lots, but there are many other ways to be injured.
Here are two additional ways injuries occur in a parking lot and the available legal remedies for victims.
Parking lot auto accidents
Alarmingly, one in five accidents occurs in parking lots, and over 60,000 injuries are reported annually. Common distractions include texting, programming GPS and even taking photos. These behaviors, combined with the chaotic nature of parking lots, make them hotspots for collisions.
Drivers can be liable if their negligent actions, such as speeding, failing to yield or being distracted caused the accident. To strengthen your vehicle accident claim, gather evidence such as photos of the scene, surveillance footage and witness statements.
Parking lot assaults
Personal attacks in parking lots are alarmingly common. They are the location of 7.3% of all violent crimes in the U.S., with 16% of these offenses involving violence. Property owners may be liable for injuries if the lot was poorly protected or lacked proper lighting to deter criminal activity.
A premises liability claim can help those assaulted in a parking lot hold the property owner accountable for their injuries. If inadequate lighting, lack of security measures or other negligent conditions led to the assault, the owner may be held legally liable.
In both scenarios, acting promptly is essential. Under North Carolina law, victims of personal injury have only three years from the date of the incident to file a claim. Proper legal guidance can mean the difference between success and failure.
