Parking Lot Accidents: What to Know

Parking lots may seem like low-risk zones, but they are common sites of accidents that result in injuries, property damage, and confusion over liability. In busy areas like Beaufort, Bluffton, and Hilton Head, shopping centers, medical offices, and tourist attractions draw heavy foot and vehicle traffic. As such, understanding how to respond to a parking lot accident is essential. Whether it involves two vehicles, a pedestrian, or damage to property, knowing how to respond after a parking lot incident can help you protect your interests and make informed decisions.

Are Parking Lot Accidents Common in South Carolina?

Yes, and more often than many people realize. Even at lower speeds, parking lot accidents are surprisingly frequent in South Carolina. According to the National Safety Council, tens of thousands of crashes occur in parking lots each year.

These accidents are especially common in crowded or poorly marked lots, where visibility is limited and drivers are distracted. In tourist-heavy areas like Hilton Head and Bluffton, out-of-town drivers unfamiliar with local traffic flow add to the risk.

Common Causes of Parking Lot Accidents

Parking lot collisions often result from preventable behaviors or environmental factors. Some of the most common include:

• Distracted driving: Many drivers assume they can check their phones or GPS at slower speeds.
• Limited visibility: Large SUVs, signage, or landscaping can block views.
• Failure to yield or stop: Drivers may ignore signage or right-of-way rules.
• Speeding: Even low-speed impacts can cause serious injuries or damage.
• Pedestrian and cyclist encounters: Sharing tight spaces increases risk.

Who Is at Fault in a Parking Lot Accident?

Determining fault in a parking lot crash depends on who had the right of way and the actions of each party. South Carolina is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible. Fault is typically determined through:

• Statements from drivers and witnesses
• Physical damage to vehicles
• Surveillance footage, if available

Some common fault scenarios include:

• A vehicle backing into another moving car: typically the backing vehicle is at fault
• Two cars backing out simultaneously: shared fault may apply
• A moving car hits a parked car: the moving driver is usually liable

What Happens If You’re Injured in a Parking Lot Accident?

Even low-speed impacts can result in serious injuries, including whiplash, broken bones, or head trauma. If you’re injured as a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, you may be eligible to seek compensation, depending on the circumstances of the incident.

If you suffer injuries (as a driver, passenger, or pedestrian) you may be entitled to compensation. Injuries like whiplash, broken bones, or head trauma can occur even at low speeds. It’s important to:

• Get immediate medical attention, even for minor symptoms
• Document the scene and your injuries
• Save all medical records and receipts
• Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as accepting fault

In some cases, if the lot was poorly maintained or lacked proper signage, the property owner may share liability under premises liability laws. Learn more in our post “What To Do After Experiencing a Slip and Fall at Work“.

What Should You Do Right After a Parking Lot Accident?

Taking the right steps after a parking lot accident can help protect your rights:

• Check for injuries and call 911 if needed
• Move to a safe area, but remain at the scene
• Exchange contact and insurance information
• Take photos of vehicle damage, license plates, and the surrounding area
• Look for witnesses and ask for their statements
• Report the incident to police or property management
• Notify your insurance company promptly

Can You Sue for a Parking Lot Accident?

Depending on the situation, if you suffered injuries or significant property damage due to someone else’s negligence, you may have grounds to pursue a personal injury or property damage claim.

A successful case could help cover:

• Medical treatment and expenses
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Vehicle repairs or replacement

Every case is different, and outcomes depend on specific facts and legal considerations. For more on when legal help is needed, visit “Not Sure What to Do After Being Injured in a Car Accident? Here are 7 Tips on What to Do Next“.

When to Contact a Parking Lot Accident Lawyer

If you’re unsure who was at fault, facing challenges with insurance companies, or experiencing injuries that impact your life, it may be time to consult with a car accident attorney.

At Carr Legal Group, we work with clients throughout Beaufort County, helping them understand their options and pursue fair compensation when appropriate. Our legal team can evaluate your case and provide guidance tailored to your circumstances.

For more about accident fault, check out our post “Who’s at Fault in a Car Accident? Everything You Need to Know“.

Note: Past results or case experiences shared in any of our posts do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique.

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