Holiday Parking Lot Accidents in Atlanta Pose Risks To Pedestrians and Drivers
The holidays are a festive time of year, but they also mean increased traffic on local roads and congested parking lots. Whether you are shopping at the Mall of Georgia, dining out in Midtown, or attending holiday-themed events, be aware that parking lot accidents are common at this time of year and can cause devastating injuries.
Our experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer represents victims and families in these cases. Find out more about the risks and your rights to compensation.
Common Ways Holiday Parking Lot Accidents in Atlanta Happen
While local parking lots may not seem dangerous, crashes and collisions are common and can cause devastating injuries for motorists and pedestrians. The National Safety Council reports tens of thousands of parking lot accidents occur each year and cause serious injuries. Children and older adults are among those most at risk.
Parking lot accidents in Atlanta become increasingly common during the holidays due to heavy traffic, poor visibility, and stressed shoppers. Common ways they happen include:
- Drivers backing out without checking for pedestrians or other vehicles;
- Speeding through crowded lanes to find a space;
- Distracted driving, such as texting, GPS use, or holiday stress;
- Poorly lit areas where it’s hard to see people or obstacles.
Pedestrians can suffer devastating injuries in these crashes. However, drivers and their passengers are also at risk, as even a seemingly minor parking lot accident in Atlanta can cause whiplash, herniated discs, concussions, and other serious injuries that take months or years to heal.
Protect Your Rights After an Atlanta Parking Lot Accident
With all the rush surrounding the holidays, you may be tempted to shrug off parking lot accidents in Atlanta. However, even minor collisions can lead to painful injuries, long recovery times, and costly bills.
Georgia requires all motorists to carry a minimum amount of insurance coverage, which can help cover your losses. However, insurers are quick to downplay parking lot accidents and may even claim you were at fault. To protect your rights and avoid out-of-pocket losses, take these steps:
- Call 911 immediately, wait for the officer to arrive, and make sure they complete a police report.
- Get a description of the driver, their vehicle, and license plate number, in case they try to flee.
- Take photos at the scene and, if possible, get contact information for witnesses.
- Refuse any immediate offers the at-fault driver makes to avoid involving insurers.
Above all, do not downplay the situation or the severity of your injuries. To protect your health and avoid complications, seek medical care right away.
Consult Our Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer
Parking lot accidents in Atlanta are common over the holidays and can cause devastating injuries. At Shiver Hamilton Campbell, we investigate, deal with insurers on your behalf, and fight for the maximum compensation.
Our Atlanta car accident serves clients throughout the Metro area, including Sandy Springs, Decatur, Roswell, and Marietta. To protect your rights in a parking lot accident claim, schedule a consultation today.
Sources:
oci.georgia.gov/insurance-resources/auto
nsc.org/road/safety-topics/distracted-driving/parking-lot-safety?srsltid=AfmBOorFM3XELxaPr-eFBpf13aCT8yaif1cc8kXx3CMSlu8qlsZ8Y4Vq
https://oci.georgia.gov/insurance-resources/auto
