Even when a parking lot contains scores of parked cars, those few that might be moving to or from a spot pose a definite danger. That is due to the possible direction of their movement, combined with the possible attitude of the driver.
Movements and attitudes that heighten the dangers that exist in a parking lot:
• Vehicles backing up;
• Drivers making quick turns;
• One vehicle follows the one in front of it too closely;
• Drivers do not want to yield to other vehicles;
• Driver might choose to use cell phone and become distracted;
• Driver might ignore signs and move in direction opposite to the one directed;
• Occupants of vehicles open their doors without watching for oncoming traffic;
• Those on foot may not pay attention to the cars, small trucks, vans and SUVs.
The relevance of the Traffic Act:
That act details the rules governing the acceptable driving habits in a public parking lot. If you get hit by someone that has failed to obey those same rules, you stand a good chance for winning some form or compensation. Of course, not every parking lot belongs on a listing of public parking lots.
Some of them can be categorized as private property. When an accident takes place in a spot where cars park on a piece of private property, then any injured victim should consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer in Milton.
Actions that should prove of greatest help to a consulted personal injury lawyer:
Victim should call 911. Once the authorities arrive on the scene, they take statements, which can be part of a police report.
Victim should seek medical help as soon as possible.
Get photographs of any damage to your vehicle; get photographs of your injuries.
Jot down the name of the lot where the accident took place. Get the name of the street on which that private facility is located. Get the name of any nearby business that might have a video camera focused on the site of the collision. Later, a consulted attorney might want to seek out some video footage.
Share only a limited amount of information with the driver in the other vehicle. Naturally, you do have to provide him or her with your name, your contact information, your license number and details on your insurance company.
Do not make any references to your medical condition. Do not make any allegations, regarding the appropriateness of some action taken by that same driver.
Do not think that the above list only concerns the actions to be taken in a parking facility. The same list of things-to-do applies, as well, anytime that 2 cars collide, while trying to parallel park.