Parking lot accidents are more common than many drivers realize. While these crashes often occur at low speeds, they can still result in serious injuries, vehicle damage, and complex liability issues. Whether you’re backing out of a space at City Creek Center in Salt Lake City or navigating a crowded lot near Utah Valley Hospital in Provo, knowing what to do after a parking lot crash in Utah is essential for protecting your health, your property, and your legal rights.
Parking Lot Crashes Are Often Treated Differently Under the Law
One of the most important distinctions in parking lot accidents is that they often occur on private property. Unlike collisions on public roadways such as I-15 or Redwood Road, a crash that happens in a store parking lot, apartment complex, or parking garage may not be investigated by police. In fact, local law enforcement may decline to respond at all unless injuries are reported. This can make documenting the scene and collecting evidence especially important.
Because a private property accident may fall outside the typical traffic enforcement jurisdiction, insurance companies often rely heavily on the statements, photos, and information gathered by the people involved. That makes it critical to act quickly and carefully after a crash.
What Causes Parking Lot Accidents in Utah?
Parking lot accidents are typically caused by one or more drivers failing to yield or pay attention to their surroundings. These crashes often occur in places like the University Mall in Orem, The Gateway in Salt Lake City, or even local grocery store lots in smaller towns like Spanish Fork or Bountiful.
Common causes of parking lot crashes include:
- Backing out blindly: Drivers who fail to look behind them when reversing out of a space often collide with moving traffic or pedestrians.
- Failing to yield at intersections within the lot: Many parking areas have designated lanes of travel, and failing to yield to through traffic can cause a crash.
- Distracted driving: Texting, looking for a spot, or adjusting navigation can cause drivers to miss other vehicles or pedestrians.
- Aggressive behavior: Speeding to grab a spot or cutting across lanes can lead to serious mishaps.
Low-Speed Doesn’t Mean Low Impact
It’s a common misconception that a low-speed injury claim isn’t worth pursuing. In reality, even crashes at 5 to 10 mph can result in injuries like whiplash, back strains, concussions, and soft tissue damage. These injuries may not be immediately apparent and often worsen over time.
Because many people underestimate the force of low-speed collisions, they may delay seeking medical attention, something that can hurt both their health and their claim. If you’ve been injured in a parking lot crash in Utah, it’s important to see a doctor promptly and document your injuries.
Who Is at Fault in a Parking Lot Crash?
Determining fault in a parking lot crash in Utah can be more complex than on public roads. Without traffic signals or clearly marked lanes, it can come down to whether a driver was backing out, moving through a thoroughfare, or cutting through empty spaces.
Typical scenarios where fault is easier to determine include:
- Two cars backing out at the same time: Shared fault may apply, depending on visibility and movement.
- One car backing into a moving vehicle: Generally, the driver backing out is at fault.
- Failure to yield to a pedestrian: Drivers are typically required to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or other designated walking areas.
What to Do After a Parking Lot Accident
After a private property accident, taking the right steps is crucial. Because police may not respond, you’re responsible for much of the documentation.
Be sure to:
- Take photos: Capture damage to all vehicles, license plates, injuries, and the overall scene.
- Exchange information: Get names, contact details, insurance info, and vehicle descriptions.
- Look for witnesses: A bystander’s statement can help resolve disputes about who is at fault.
- File a report with your insurance company: Even for minor damage, notify your insurer to initiate the claims process.
If you’re unsure about how to proceed or if the other driver disputes fault, it’s smart to speak with a lawyer.
Speak With a Utah Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you were injured in a parking lot crash in Utah, especially one that occurred on private property, you don’t have to navigate the legal aftermath alone. These accidents can quickly become complicated when it comes to proving fault and securing compensation for medical bills and car repairs. A Utah car accident lawyer from Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks can help you build a strong case, handle the insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call (801) 500-4000 today for a free consultation.
