Charleston Parking Lot Accident Lawyer
Parking lot accidents are more common than many realize. Depending on speed, angle and other factors, parking lot accidents can indeed cause serious injuries. The nature of these crashes, however, often gives rise to complex legal disputes over who is liable for the collision, making it important to secure the help of a Charleston parking lot accident lawyer. The Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm is dedicated to helping victims navigate the complexities of parking lot accidents to secure the compensation they deserve. Our firm’s founder, Gus Anastopoulo, left behind a thriving litigation practice in a large law firm to create a more intimate environment where accident victims could receive the attention and tailored approach they deserve. Call us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case.
Common Causes of Parking Lot Accidents
Parking lot accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers often multitask while navigating parking lots, leading to accidents.
- Reversing Vehicles: Many parking lot accidents occur when drivers are backing out of spaces without properly checking their surroundings.
- Speeding: Parking lot speed limits may be as low as five miles per hour or as high as 15 mph in a large lot, but caution is paramount regardless of any posted speed limit. Exceeding the parking lot speed limit or driving too fast for conditions can lead to collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians.
- Poor Visibility: Obstructions, inadequate lighting, and weather conditions can impair a driver’s ability to see clearly.
- Pedestrian Incidents: Pedestrians in parking lots are at risk, especially when drivers fail to notice them or yield the right-of-way.
Determining Liability in Parking Lot Accidents
Determining who is at fault in a parking lot accident can be challenging. Establishing liability often depends on several factors, including right-of-way violations, negligence, parking lot design, and surveillance footage. Drivers must adhere to traffic signs and yield to pedestrians, and failure to do so can establish liability. Moreover, if a driver is distracted, speeding, or otherwise negligent, they may be held responsible for the accident. Sometimes, the layout and design of a parking lot can contribute to accidents. In such cases, the property owner or manager may share liability. Many parking lots have security cameras that can provide crucial evidence in determining fault. It is important to act swiftly after an accident to ensure that valuable evidence such as video footage is preserved.
Steps to Take After a Parking Lot Accident in Charleston
If you are involved in a parking lot accident, taking the following steps can help protect your rights:
- Ensure Safety: Check for injuries and move to a safe location if possible.
- Call the Police: Reporting the accident can create an official record that may be valuable for your claim. Be aware that if the accident did not involve injury and the cars are moveable, the police might choose not to respond.
- Exchange Information: Obtain contact and insurance information from all parties involved. While you can provide the name and contact information of your insurance company along with your policy number, it is wise not to share details such as policy limits or type of coverage.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Note the time, date, and location of the accident.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. A medical professional can assess your condition. After describing the accident you were in, a doctor will know what to look for and what tests to order if necessary. We can put you in touch with a doctor if you don’t know where to go.
- Consult an Lawyer: Contact the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm to discuss your case and understand your legal options.
How the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm Can Help
At the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm in Charleston, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that parking lot accidents can take on victims. Our experienced personal injury lawyers are committed to providing comprehensive legal support, including thoroughly investigating the accident, gathering evidence, and identifying all liable parties. Our team will negotiate with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement for your injuries and damages, but if a fair settlement cannot be reached, we can take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Victims of parking lot accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including medical expenses that cover current and future medical treatments related to the accident, compensation for lost income due to injury-related absence from work, “pain and suffering” damages for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident, and compensation for property damage, including reimbursement for vehicle repairs or replacement.
Contact the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a parking lot accident in Charleston, South Carolina, don’t give up thinking that you don’t have a case, and don’t try to handle any insurance claim alone. Contact the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm at 843-310-5555 for a free, confidential consultation. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers will guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.