3 FAQs About Parking Lot Car Accident Claims
Driving through a parking lot or garage might seem like a fairly mundane experience. Many people do this every day without incident, but parking lot accidents are surprisingly common. Thousands of people are injured and hundreds die each year in these crashes. If you were hurt in such an accident, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim.
Read on to learn the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about parking lot car accident cases:
1. Who Might Be Liable for a Collision in a Parking Lot?
There are several parties who could be liable for a parking lot accident. In addition to the drivers (and perhaps pedestrians) who were directly involved, any individuals who contributed to the conditions that led to the wreck (and perhaps their employers) may also be partially liable.
For example, drivers who ignore lane markers and cut across empty spaces could be responsible for any collision that results. The parties who are responsible for maintaining the lot or garage could also be liable if crumbling concrete, eroded lane markers, or another symptom of negligent maintenance was a contributing factor. And if the crash happened because of a defective auto part, the designer or manufacturer of the part might be liable.
2. Should I Hire an Attorney Before Filing a Car Accident Claim?
If you were hurt in a parking lot accident, it’s wise to seek legal counsel before commencing the claims process. Your lawyer can:
- Gather evidence;
- File subpoenas if necessary to obtain evidence that’s being withheld;
- Prevent you from making critical mistakes throughout the proceedings;
- Handle all correspondence with the opposing party;
- Interview eyewitnesses;
- Track economic damages;
- Estimate a fair figure for non-economic damages;
- Manage settlement negotiations; and
- Prepare the case for court if necessary.
Since every motor-vehicle collision is different, there’s no simple formula for estimating the potential value of a given claim. To approximate a fair settlement, your attorney will have to perform a thorough investigation and possibly consult with medical and economic experts. If you’re wondering how much your case might be worth, it may help to know the types of damages that personal injury claimants can pursue in the state of Florida. If your injuries are serious, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills;
- Lost wages;
- Loss of future earning capacity;
- Property damage;
- Pain and suffering;
- Emotional distress;
- Loss of enjoyment in life;
- Home care;
- Child care;
- Alternative transportation;
- Any necessary home or vehicle modifications; and
- Domestic help.
Discuss Your Case with a Car Accident Attorney in Florida
If you or a loved one sustained serious injuries in a parking lot car accident, contact Donaldson & Weston. We have the resources of a large practice but we are dedicated to providing the personal, one-on-one attention of a small, local law firm. Call 772-266-5555 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free case evaluation with a car accident lawyer in Florida.
