5 Ways To Avoid Parking Lot Accidents in Florida
Parking lots are always assumed to be safer than busy highways. However, this is not accurate. Parking lots can pose significant risks for both motorists and pedestrians, especially during the holidays. The National Safety Council estimates that tens of thousands of accidents happen in parking lots every year. Unfortunately, parking lot accidents can cause severe injuries and even death. Even at low speeds, a parking lot accident can have devastating consequences.
Here are five tips to help you avoid parking lot accidents in Florida and protect you, your loved ones, and others.
- Drive Slowly
One of the main causes of parking lot accidents in Florida is speeding. Many drivers fail to adjust their speed when driving through parking lots. By slowing down, you give yourself time to react to sudden obstacles and unexpected movements, such as a pedestrian stepping into your path suddenly, and a driver barking out of a parking space without warning.
- Stay Alert While Behind the Wheel
Some drivers assume that it is safe to be on the phone or distracted in another way in a parking lot because of the slow speeds. However, distracted driving is a common cause of accidents in parking lots. The National Safety Council warns against engaging in activities like texting, using social media, programming GPS systems, and sending or receiving videos while driving through parking lots.
- Be Careful When Backing Up
Backing up is a leading cause of accidents in parking lots. Often this happens because drivers cannot see clearly or fail to yield the right of way. When backing out of a parking space;
- Check all mirrors and over your shoulder to see if there is anyone
- Back up slowly to allow others time to adjust their driving or walking
- Yield to oncoming vehicles and pedestrians
- Watch for Pedestrians
Keep an eye out for pedestrians when driving through a parking lot, especially in malls, grocery stores, and tourist attractions. These places usually have a lot of foot traffic. Some pedestrians may be distracted, while others may be unpredictable. Always yield to pedestrians and anticipate sudden movements.
- Use Your Turn Signals
While it might not seem like a big deal, using turn signals in parking lots can help prevent accidents. Turn signals communicate your intentions to other drivers and pedestrians. By signaling your intentions, you prevent other drivers or pedestrians from unknowingly entering your path, reducing the risk of accidents.
Steps To Take After a Parking Lot Accident
After a parking lot accident, your safety and legal rights should be your priority. First, check for injuries and call 911. If possible, move your car to a safe spot. Then, exchange information, such as contacts and insurance information, with the other party or parties. Next, document the scene by taking photos and videos if your condition allows you, and get the names and contact information of any witnesses. Finally, report the accident to your insurance company and speak to a car accident attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options.
Legal Help Is Available
Our Jacksonville car accident attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm can help in the event you are involved in a parking lot accident. You can reach us by calling 844-200-0000 or completing our online contact form.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Tampa, Miami, Ocala, Orlando, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
Source:
nsc.org/road/safety-topics/distracted-driving/parking-lot-safety#:~:text=Tens%20of%20thousands%20of%20crashes%20occur%20in%20parking%20lots%20and%20garage%20structures%20annually%2C%20resulting%20in%20hundreds%20of%20deaths%20and%20thousands%20of%20injuries.