Parking Lot Car Accidents in Colorado Springs
Traffic laws require individuals to drive slowly in parking lots and look out for pedestrians and nearby vehicles. However, these accidents are common and have the potential to cause severe injuries.
Even accidents that occur at low speeds in parking areas can cause be catastrophic—especially those that involve pedestrians. When you are in a crash caused by negligence, schedule a meeting with a motor vehicle collision attorney. A legal representative could explain how to bring a claim after a parking lot accident in Colorado Springs and work to get you the compensation you deserve.
How Do Parking Lot Car Accidents Occur?
Most parking lot wrecks involve distractions or failure to check blind spots. These incidents typically increase during the colder months during icy conditions. Liability for parking lot accidents usually depends on how the crash occurred. In some cases, the court might determine that both drivers share fault.
These collisions commonly occur when a driver does one of the following:
- Backs out of a parking space without checking for other vehicles
- Hits a parked car while backing out or pulling into a parking space
- Backs out of a parking space at the same time as another vehicle
- Pulls out of a parking space without checking for oncoming cars
- Drives too fast and fails to check for pedestrians
- Fails to adhere to right-of-way traffic rules
A knowledgeable attorney in Colorado Springs could investigate a parking lot collision and collect evidence to prove a negligent driver was responsible for the crash.
Compensation for Parking Lot Car Crashes
After proving fault for a vehicle crash that occurred in a parking lot, the court will review the case details to determine a fair settlement amount to award the victim. Damages can cover the following:
- Healthcare expenses
- Ongoing medical care, prescriptions, and medical equipment
- Lost income and benefits
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Mental pain and anguish
- Pain and suffering
The civil court breaks damages into two categories: economic and non-economic. Economic damages cover the victim’s out-of-pocket expenses, while non-economic damages cover the victim’s subjective injuries. A hardworking lawyer in Colorado Springs could help place a value on the victim’s losses after a parking lot car crash and fight to recover them from the negligent party.
When to Report Parking Lot Vehicle Accidents
Drivers in Colorado Springs must understand the traffic rules and regulations to ensure they comply and avoid penalties. According to the Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1606, individuals have a duty to report car accidents resulting in bodily injuries and property damage to the local police agency—even when there is minimal damage.
While people have up to 90 days to report an accident of this nature, they should do so immediately. However, when law enforcement comes to the scene of a parking lot accident, it will fulfill the duty. In cases with minor damage not requiring an officer to investigate, the driver must report to the police afterward.
Anyone who does not report a parking lot vehicle wreck could face criminal prosecution. A conviction could result in a Class 2 misdemeanor, significant fines, and up to 90 days in jail. A skilled lawyer seasoned in parking lot wrecks could explain these rules and regulations in detail during a private consultation.
Schedule a Meeting With an Attorney in Colorado Springs to Discuss Parking Lot Car Accidents
Parking lot vehicle crashes are common and can happen at any time. While many are minor and leave the involved parties with little damage, some can be severe, leading to life-altering injuries and property damage.
When a negligent motorist causes the incident, the civil court could allow you to hold the driver responsible and collect a settlement to cover the damage. Meet with a qualified lawyer skilled in parking lot accidents in Colorado Springs for help with a case.
