Legal Rights for Pedestrians Hit by Cars in Parking Lots

What are your rights when you’re hit by a car while walking in a parking lot? Who is legally responsible, and how can you seek maximum compensation for your injuries and losses?

The answers depend on the specifics of your case, and a car accident attorney can help you understand your best options for moving forward.

If a car hit you while you were walking in a parking lot, an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Alabama can explain your options. By understanding your parking lot accident legal rights, you will be better positioned to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Parking Lot Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents in parking lots often occur due to a combination of driver and pedestrian behaviors, as well as environmental factors. Some of the most common causes of parking lot pedestrian accidents include:

• Distracted driving, such as texting or using a GPS
• Limited visibility caused by parked cars, poor lighting, or poor parking lot design
• Speeding in parking lots despite designated speed limits
• Failure to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or walkways
• Reversing without checking for pedestrians
• Pedestrians not paying attention while walking, such as by using their phones
• Poorly marked pedestrian zones or unclear signage

Legal Rights of Pedestrians in Alabama

Pedestrians in Alabama have the legal right to use crosswalks and sidewalks safely. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and exercise care to avoid hitting them. Pedestrians also have the right to seek compensation if a driver’s negligence causes an injury.

However, it’s important to be aware of the doctrine of contributory negligence in Alabama and its role in pedestrian accident claims. If a pedestrian bears any fault at all for the accident, they may be barred from recovering compensation. This strict standard makes it essential for pedestrians to contact an attorney immediately after an accident so they can begin building a strong case.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Car Accident

Being hit by a car in a parking lot can result in serious injuries, even at low speeds. Taking these immediate steps after the accident is essential to protect your health, preserve valuable evidence, safeguard your right to pursue compensation for your losses, and hold the at-fault driver or property owner accountable:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical evaluation because concussions, internal bleeding, and other internal injuries may not show symptoms immediately. Seeking care and documenting your injuries can demonstrate that they were caused by the accident.
• Contact Law Enforcement – Call 911 to report the incident to the police and trigger an official accident report. This report will serve as crucial evidence when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
• Gather Evidence at the Scene – Take photos of the motor vehicle that hit you, your injuries, and the conditions at the accident scene. If there are witnesses, get their contact information so they can provide statements to support your claim.
• Exchange Information with the Driver – Get the driver’s insurance company information, name, and license plate number. This information is necessary to file an insurance claim.
• Consult Legal Guidance – Reach out to an Alabama pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible. They’ll help you understand your options and prevent mistakes that could hurt your case and jeopardize your ability to pursue compensation.

How Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Help

Have you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident in a parking lot? Stokes Stemle, LLC can help. We have the skills and experience necessary to pursue the compensation you deserve. To quote from one of our client testimonials:

“I am so glad that my wife called Stokes & Stemle the moment we were in an accident. Josh and Jonathan were excellent. They walked me through the process, helped get me set up with a great chiropractor in my area for my injuries, were communicative and responsive, and made me feel like they had my back along the way. They made a stressful situation, so much smoother, and got me a great settlement. Thanks Stokes and Stemle.”

We also offer free consultations, so you don’t have to worry about paying upfront to discuss your case with an Alabama personal injury lawyer. Contact us today to get started.