Crashes in parking lots can happen anywhere. However, they most commonly happen in crowded malls, shopping center garages, or parking areas. After a traffic incident occurs, it is essential to call the police so an officer can complete an accident report and exchange information with the other driver so that you may recover a fair payout for damages.
Unfortunately, parking lot accidents in Houston are not uncommon. However, one of our seasoned car accident attorneys could help you hold the responsible party financially accountable. Call today to schedule an appointment for more information.
Types of Accidents
Parking lot collisions usually happen at low speeds, and the damage is often minor. However, that is not always the case, as negligent motorists may travel at higher speeds and cause more severe crashes with lasting consequences. Some of the common types of traffic accidents happening in parking areas include:
- Rear-end crashes
- Collisions caused by a distracted driver
- Pedestrians or bicyclists being struck by vehicles
- Two drivers reversing at the same time and back into each other
- A vehicle backing out of a space without adequately checking for oncoming cars
- Head-on collisions caused by two drivers turning a corner and striking each other
Accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists can be severe. The severity of collisions between two vehicles often depends on the speed at which the motorists travel at the time of impact. An attorney experienced with parking lot crashes in Houston could gather the essential evidence to prove fault and help collect a fair settlement from the liable party.
Insurance Company Communication
Insurance providers will typically settle auto collisions, and a representative for the other party’s insurer may reach out quickly. While accepting the first offer and closing the case may be tempting, speaking with a qualified car crash attorney could ensure the liable party covers the entire cost of damages and losses.
Automobile Safety Responsibility and Duty to Report Accidents
Vehicle crashes occurring in parking lots are among the most common types involving a person leaving the accident scene. Per the guidance of the Texas Transportation Code § 601.004, anyone involved in a collision that causes bodily harm, including death, or property damages of $1,000 or more, must report the traffic incident to the Department of Transportation DOT within ten days if they do not call a police officer to investigate the scene of the accident. The report must include the following information:
- Place and time the collision happened
- A summary of how the accident occurred
- Auto insurance information for all motorists
- Road and weather conditions when the collision happened
- Name, address, and date of birth, and driver’s license numbers of everyone involved
- License plate numbers for the vehicles involved in the crash and owner information if different than the driver during the time of the crash
Penalties for failing to report the collision within the time required under the law could result in significant fines and a driver’s license suspension. A lawyer knowledgeable in handling cases involving Houston parking lot crashes could answer specific questions about the process and regulations during the consultation.
Call a Houston Attorney About Parking Lot Crashes
While many collisions in parking garages and lots involve low speeds and minor damage, they can sometimes be severe. You have every right to expect the careless motorist to pay for your damages and losses if they caused an avoidable crash.
The recovery claims process is complex and requires negotiation skills to ensure the payout covers your total losses. A lawyer experienced with handling parking lot accidents in Houston could handle insurance company communication on your behalf and help with the civil claims process, but they cannot agree on the appropriate settlement amount. Call today to schedule a consultation.