How Denver Parking Lot Accidents Happen
Parking lot collisions can happen in many different ways, but some are far more common than others.
How an accident happens often helps determine who is to blame for the crash. Although more than one person can be at fault in an accident, the driver who has the right-of-way is less likely to be considered liable.
Vehicle backs out of parking space, collides with an oncoming car
Both vehicles have some degree of responsibility because they are expected to check for oncoming traffic.
Nevertheless, the driver in the traffic lane has the right of way. The driver backing out is required to wait for traffic to clear before moving out of the parking space. That driver is likely to be deemed liable in the event of a collision.
Vehicle pulls forward out of a parking space and collides with an oncoming car
Again, both drivers bear some responsibility. The driver already in the lane of traffic has the right of way. The driver pulling out of the parking space and into oncoming traffic is likely liable for any accidents that happen as a result.
Two vehicles collide while trying to get the same parking space
Who has the right of way when two drivers are eyeing the same parking spot? It depends.
Generally, a driver making a turn against oncoming traffic must yield to other vehicles in oncoming traffic. That means that the driver making a right turn into the parking space would have the right of way.
In these types of accidents, liability can also depend on whether one car was clearly there first and began turning into the space before the other. That can be determined from video footage, witness testimony and physical evidence like the point of impact on the vehicles.
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Two cars collide while backing out of separate parking spots
Both drivers are likely to share liability in this situation. Fault may very well depend on the specific circumstances, however, like whether one driver was distracted at the time or failed to check for traffic before backing out.
By investigating the crash and gathering all of the evidence, our firm’s Denver parking lot accident attorney will help you determine who is to blame and seek compensation accordingly.
A moving vehicle collides with a parked car
These accidents are common in parking lots, as well as driveways and parallel street parking situations.
The driver in the moving vehicle is almost always going to be considered at fault for the accident. However, exceptions may occur when a car is illegally parked.
A car rear-ends a vehicle at a stop sign
Rear-end accidents are another common type of parking lot collision, although they do not usually happen while a driver is pulling in or out of a parking space.
The driver of the vehicle that is moving – the rear vehicle – is likely to be liable in this scenario. However, the situation changes if the lead vehicle stops short or abruptly, causing the rear vehicle to slam into it.
Colorado Hit and Run Laws
Colorado law generally requires drivers involved in accidents across the state to stick around after the collision, even in seemingly minor crashes. That includes parking lot accidents.
Drivers are required to report the accident to law enforcement and exchange their name, address and vehicle registration to other drivers involved in the crash. They also have to show their driver’s license to other drivers upon request.
A driver who leaves the scene of a crash faces criminal penalties, including possible jail time and fines. The driver is also likely to be on the hook for any injuries and vehicle damage caused by the collision.
The criminal prosecution for a hit and run crash is entirely separate from any action that a person injured in a hit and run accident takes against those responsible. A Denver parking lot accident attorney at our firm will track down the hit and run driver and ensure that you get the full compensation available under the law.
What to Do If You Are Involved in a Parking Lot Accident
The moments during and after a car accident can be stressful and confusing. Therefore, anyone who is involved in a parking lot collision in Colorado should take the following steps.
- Seek medical attention immediately in the case of an emergency
- Call the police to document the crash
- Exchange contact information with others involved in the crash. If you cannot locate the other driver or the accident involves a parked car, leave your contact information in a place that is easy to find.
- Take photos using a smartphone if needed. The more photos that include the damage to the cars involved and the wider scene of the accident, the better.
It is also important to consult a seasoned car accident lawyer to evaluate your case and help you understand your rights and options. A Denver parking lot accident attorney at Levine Law can help.
Speak With a Denver Parking Lot Accident Attorney Today
At Levine Law, we have dedicated our careers to helping clients injured in a wide range of accidents. We are committed to fighting tirelessly for the people and families that we represent. Our firm is pleased to serve clients throughout Colorado, including Denver, Colorado Springs, Ft. Collins and Loveland. Call us at 303-333-8000 or contact us online to speak with a Denver parking lot accident attorney.
