Parking Lot Accidents in Illinois

Top-Rated Injury Attorneys for Drivers and Pedestrians Injured in Chicago Area Parking Lots

Parking lots are deceptively dangerous. While they may seem like low-speed, low-risk environments, they’re actually hotspots for car accidents. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), more than 50,000 car crashes occur in parking lots and garage structures annually, resulting in over 500 deaths and 60,000 injuries. These numbers highlight the need for awareness and proactive safety measures.

For residents of Illinois, parking lot accidents can present unique challenges, from navigating state-specific laws to dealing with insurance companies. At John J. Malm & Associates, our award-winning Illinois car accident attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and options if you’ve been involved in a parking lot collision.

“Parking lot accidents often involve unique complexities, including dealing with distracted drivers and determining fault. These cases require a thorough understanding of Illinois law to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve. In parking lot collisions, our attorneys work hard to determine liability and get our clients the compensation they deserve.” – John J. Malm, Naperville car accident lawyer

Statistics on Parking Lot Accidents

Understanding the prevalence of parking lot accidents underscores the importance of vigilance. Consider these statistics:

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 1 in 5 accidents occur in parking lots.
• According to the National Safety Council (NSC), 66% of drivers admit to being distracted in parking lots.
• According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, more than 20% of pedestrian-related accidents occur in parking lots.

These statistics highlight the need for improved awareness and safety practices.

Common Causes of Parking Lot Accidents

Parking lot accidents often occur due to factors such as:

1. Distracted Driving: The NSC reports that two-thirds of drivers admit to making phone calls while driving through parking lots. Other distractions that cause parking lot accidents include texting, using navigation apps, or adjusting music.
2. Poor Visibility: Dim lighting, obstructed views from parked cars, or blind spots can increase the likelihood of crashes
3. Failure to Yield: Many drivers fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians or other vehicles in marked lanes or at stop signs.
4. Speeding: Even at low speeds, driving too fast in parking lots can lead to accidents, especially when pedestrians are present.
5. Reversing Errors: Backing out of a parking space without adequately checking for other cars or pedestrians is a common scenario in parking lot collisions.

Types of Parking Lot Accidents

Parking lot collisions can take various forms, including:

• Vehicle-Vehicle Collisions: These include sideswipes, rear-end accidents, and head-on collisions.
• Pedestrian Accidents: Parking lots are shared spaces where pedestrians are at risk of being struck by inattentive drivers.
• Single-Vehicle Accidents: Drivers may hit stationary objects like poles, shopping carts, or barriers.

Liability in Parking Lot Accidents

Determining liability in parking lot accidents can be complicated. Illinois follows a fault-based system, meaning the driver found at fault is responsible for compensating the injured party.

Key factors in establishing fault include:

• Traffic Signs and Markings: Drivers who fail to obey stop signs, yield signs, or directional arrows can be deemed at fautl.
• Right-of-Way Rules: Vehicles traveling in main thoroughfares typically have the right of way over those exiting parking spaces.
• Negligence Standards: Distracted driving or speeding can contribute to a driver’s negligence.

Illinois uses a modified comparative fault rule, which allows you to recover damages as long as you are less than 50% at fault. However, under the modified comparative fault rule, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of comparative fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% negligent, your compensation will be reduced by 20%.

What to Do After a Parking Lot Accident

Taking the right steps after a parking lot accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what to do:

1. Ensure Safety: Move your vehicle to a safe location if possible and check for injuries.
2. Call the Police: While parking lot accidents may not always require a police report, it is important to call the police immediately. Having a police report can provide crucial evidence and help determine who was at fault in the crash.
3. Exchange Information: Gather contact and insurance details from the other driver(s) involved.
4. Document the Scene: Take photographs of the vehicles, damages, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
5. Look for Witnesses: Obtain contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident.
6. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and can become serious later on.
7. Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company of the accident, but avoid giving detailed statements until you’ve consulted a lawyer.
8. Consult an Experienced Illinois Car Attorney: A top-rated Illinois car accident lawyer will help protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.

How John J. Malm & Associates Can Help with Your Illinois Parking Lot Accident Case

At John J. Malm & Associates, our Illinois car accident attorneys have extensive experience handling parking lot accident cases throughout Illinois. Our services include:

• Investigation: Gathering evidence to establish liability.
• Negotiation: Working with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation.
• Litigation: Representing you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Contact the Top-Rated Illinois Car Accident Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

If you’ve been involved in a parking lot accident in Illinois, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Contact the award-winning Illinois car crash lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.