Parking lot and parking garage accidents can be far more complex than crashes that occur on standard roadways, especially for pedestrians. Pedestrians must always be extra vigilant of speeders, vehicles backing up, distracted drivers and hazardous weather conditions. Despite the low speeds typically traveled in parking areas, accidents involving pedestrians can be catastrophic and even deadly.
The Complex Factors In Parking Lot Accidents
A 2016 poll conducted by The National Safety Council reveals shocking statistics regarding distracted drivers and parking areas. Out of the 2,500 participants polled, 66 percent of motorists admitted to making a phone call while driving through a parking area. Additionally, drivers have admitted to engaging in other distracted behavior such as programming a GPS, using a smartwatch, flipping through digital music, texting, using social media, checking emails and snapping pictures.
Aside from distracted driving, speeding and careless backing up are common factors in parking lot accidents involving pedestrians. These accidents can happen unexpectedly and can result in serious and fatal injuries. A 52-year-old Waco resident was recently struck in a parking lot by a motorist who failed to practice caution while backing up. The man later died after being taken to the hospital for life-threatening injuries.
Hazardous weather can contribute to parking lot accidents as well, especially if the parking lot has a poor drainage system. Considering the recent drop in temperature in Texas, icy conditions can’t be ruled out either.
Parking Lot Safety Can Be Improved
In a Safety and Health article, The Parking Lot Advisory Group LLC offers some tips on how to make parking lots safer for motorists and pedestrians. The company, who designs parking areas and analyzes current parking lots and garages, strongly favors:
What Pedestrians Can Do To Stay Safe
When walking through a parking lot, pedestrians should always stay alert and avoid using cellular devices. They should also avoid walking in between vehicles and empty parking spaces, which limit their visibility. Lastly, as Marcus suggests, “the safest place for a person to walk is down the middle of the aisle because they’re the most visible there.”
If you have been struck by a negligent driver while walking through a parking lot in Bryan-College Station, Waco or the surrounding areas, you need an experienced pedestrian accident attorney on your side. The attorneys and staff at Chad Jones Law, P.C. will fight for the justice you deserve.