By Bradley L. Kenny, Esq.
With the holiday season fast approaching, we must all be mindful of going to and from stores and malls. I have seen a rise in parking lot accidents in the last five years. I think that too much technology plays a big role. You might believe, “Well even if I get into an accident in a parking lot, how bad could it be?“
Shockingly, it could be pretty bad. While parking lot accidents may seem less severe than highway collisions, they can still result in significant injuries. It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately after a parking lot accident, even if you don’t feel severely injured. Hidden injuries may not become apparent right away. A medical professional can assess your condition and provide appropriate treatment. Here are some potential injuries that can occur in a parking lot accident:
•Head Injuries: These can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries.
•Neck and Back Injuries: Whiplash, herniated discs, and spinal fractures are common injuries in rear-end collisions.
•Broken Bones: Impact from a collision can cause fractures in various parts of the body, including arms, legs, and ribs.
•Soft Tissue Injuries (My friend would say “spinal injuries without fracture”): Bruises, sprains, and strains are common in parking lot accidents.
•Internal Injuries: In severe cases, accidents can cause internal bleeding or organ damage.
Here are some of the major factors in causing such injuries:
•Speed: Even low speeds can cause significant injuries.
•Vehicle Size and Type: Larger vehicles or SUVs can inflict more damage.
•Impact Location: The point of impact on the vehicle can determine the type and severity of injuries.
•Use of Safety Restraints: Wearing seat belts and using airbags can significantly reduce the risk of severe injuries.
In a National Safety Council (NSC) public opinion poll of drivers nationwide, respondents said they would do the following while driving through parking lots:
* Make phone calls (66%)
* Program GPS systems (63%)
* Text (56%)
* Use social media (52%)
* Send or receive emails (50%)
* Take photos or watch videos (49%)
NSC found teens (59%) were more likely to engage in personal grooming than adults (53%) while driving in a parking lot, but less likely to be on the phone (60% vs. 66%).
During the hectic holiday season, drivers and pedestrians are likely to be distracted by extensive to-do lists and hurriedly trying to get from one place to another. It’s unbelievable the number of parking lots, while seemingly innocuous, that can be a mecca for accidents. Understanding the common causes can help drivers stay safe and avoid these incidents.
Some common causes of parking lot accidents involve distracted driving. A short but not exhaustive list:
•Cell Phones: Using a phone, even hands-free, can divert attention from the road, leading to accidents.
•Eating or Drinking: Distracted eating or drinking can impair visibility and reaction time.
•Passengers: Engaging in conversations or tending to children can take focus away from driving.
Remember that parking lot accidents can have serious consequences. By driving defensively and following safety guidelines, you can reduce your risk of being involved in such incidents. We appreciate the opportunity to represent you, please be careful this holiday season.
