If you are the victim of a parking lot car accident in Seattle, Washington, you need to know what your rights are and the steps you should follow after the accident. Parking lot accidents can be especially tricky since the person at fault may flee the scene of the accident, making it more challenging to prove who is at fault. There are also specific steps you have to take when filing a claim to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
At NBF Accident Law, our auto accident attorneys in Washington will help you every step of the way as you file a car accident claim for a parking lot accident. Our attorneys will work tirelessly on your behalf and help you understand what to do after a parking lot accident to ensure your rights are upheld.
What Causes Parking Lot Car Accidents?
Parking lot car accidents are more common than people may realize as there are a variety of things that can result in these types of accidents. Some parking lots are poorly designed, which can heighten the risk of accidents even when drivers are driving responsibly. On the other hand, some drivers may drive recklessly through parking lots, putting other people in danger.
The majority of parking lot accidents occur when one vehicle is parked and another is driving through, backing out, or attempting to park themselves. Because of this, there are instances where the at fault driver may not remain at the scene of the collision, which could make determining who pays after an accident in a parking lot more tricky.
Here are some common causes of parking lot accidents that you should be aware of:
- Reckless driving
- Speeding
- Poor lighting
- Limited space
- Poorly maintained parking lots
- Lack of driver awareness
Staying Safe in Seattle Parking Lots
Even when you follow parking lot accident laws, you may still be at risk of being hit by another driver. Because of this, there are a few tips you can follow to stay safer in Seattle parking lots and reduce your risk of being involved in an accident.
These tips include choosing a parking spot that has plenty of room and is in clear view of a surveillance camera. You should also ensure you park correctly to allow plenty of space on both sides. Additionally, you can try parking in a less crowded area of the parking lot.
When you are driving through the parking lot, maintain a very cautious speed, keeping an eye out for any vehicles that may be backing out of a parking space.
Who is at Fault in a Parking Lot Car Accident?
Washington is an at-fault state, which means that the driver who is considered to be at fault will be financially responsible for covering the other driver’s damages. This is why it is so crucial that you prove who is at fault in a car accident in a parking lot. You don’t want the liability in a parking lot accident to fall on you, especially if you were the victim.
Negligence is the backbone of proving who was at fault in a car accident since it shows that the other driver failed to do their duty to avoid causing the accident. An example of this is if the driver fails to check their rearview mirrors as they pull out, which results in them hitting your parked vehicle. They would be found negligent since they failed to do what they should have done in order to pull out safely.
Something to keep in mind is that in Seattle, Washington, fault can be divided between both drivers. Because of this, it is crucial that you gather enough evidence to prove that the other driver was truly at fault and it was their negligence that caused the accident.
Before you file a car accident claim for a parking lot accident, it is crucial that you first hire a car accident attorney. An attorney can help you file a thorough claim that proves that you were not at fault. They will also help to protect your rights when negotiating with insurance companies so that you do not accept a lowball settlement offer.
What to Do After a Parking Lot Accident
Now that you know more about the parking lot accident rules in Seattle, what should you do after a parking lot car accident? There are several steps you need to take that are similar to the steps you would take after any other type of car accident in Washington.
- Report the accident: In Washington, you need to report any vehicle accidents so that law enforcement can create a report. This is especially important if you have been injured and need medical attention. You should also take this opportunity to report the accident to your insurance company.
- Exchange information: If the driver remains at the scene of the collision, you need to exchange contact and insurance information with them.
- Gather evidence: If you aren’t injured, you should take the additional step of gathering evidence at the scene of the collision. Try to get the contact information of any witnesses and take photos of any injuries and damage to your vehicle.
- Hire an attorney: After the car accident, before you file a claim, you need to hire a car accident attorney in Washington. An attorney can help you gather additional evidence, such as surveillance videos and police reports so that you can file a more substantial claim. An attorney will also help you negotiate with insurance companies so that you get the settlement you deserve.
Contact an Auto Accident Attorney at NBF Accident Law
Are you wondering what to do after a parking lot accident in Seattle, WA? Parking lot accidents can be especially difficult as you will need to gather enough evidence to prove who was at fault when you file a claim.
At NBF Accident Law, our car accident lawyers will fight purposefully for Seattle residents who are victims of parking lot accidents. We will help you as you file your car accident claim, collect evidence to prove fault and communicate with insurance companies.
Contact us today at 206-923-8888 to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys in Seattle.
