Hit by a car while walking in a parking lot in Houston?
Call the Adley Law Firm today to discuss your legal rights
Parking lots in Houston, whether at grocery stores like H-E-B, large retailers like Walmart, or shopping malls, are bustling areas where vehicles and pedestrians share space. While they are designed for convenience, parking lots often become the site of serious pedestrian accidents. Drivers may be distracted, pedestrians may be hard to see, and poor design or maintenance can make these areas hazardous.
At the Adley Law Firm, we understand the challenges pedestrians face after an accident in a parking lot. With over 30 years of experience, our dedicated team helps injury victims in Houston fight for the compensation they deserve.
Common Causes of Parking Lot Pedestrian Accidents
Parking lots pose unique risks for pedestrians. The combination of close vehicle proximity, distractions, and frequent foot traffic creates a perfect storm for accidents. Here are some common causes of parking lot pedestrian injuries:
1. Distracted Drivers
- Using Cell Phones: Drivers often check their phones while navigating parking lots, looking at directions or texts instead of watching for pedestrians.
- Searching for Parking Spaces: Drivers focusing on finding an open spot may fail to see pedestrians crossing the lane.
2. Reversing Vehicles
- Limited Visibility: Drivers backing out of spaces without checking their blind spots or rearview mirrors often hit pedestrians walking behind them.
- Obstructed Views: Large vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, can block a driver’s view of smaller pedestrians or children.
3. Speeding
While parking lots generally have low speed limits, many drivers fail to adhere to them, reducing their ability to stop in time if a pedestrian steps into their path.
4. Poor Parking Lot Design or Maintenance
- Lack of Crosswalks or Sidewalks: Many parking lots, especially older ones, lack designated walking areas, forcing pedestrians to walk in traffic lanes.
- Inadequate Lighting: Poor lighting at night makes it harder for drivers to see pedestrians and for pedestrians to spot approaching vehicles.
- Poor Traffic Flow Management: Parking lots without clear markings or traffic signs can confuse drivers, leading to collisions with pedestrians.
5. Pedestrian Distractions
- Walking While Texting: Pedestrians looking at their phones may not notice vehicles approaching.
- Carrying Heavy Items: Shoppers exiting stores like H-E-B or Walmart with carts or large bags may have their vision obstructed, making it harder to notice vehicles.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Parking Lot Pedestrian Accidents
When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian in a parking lot, the injuries can be severe, even at low speeds. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head injuries, like concussions, caused by impact with the vehicle or pavement.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage that can lead to paralysis or chronic pain.
- Broken Bones: Fractures in legs, arms, nose, ribs, or pelvis are common.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to organs or internal bleeding.
- Cuts, Lacerations, and Abrasions: Resulting from contact with the vehicle or the ground.
- Emotional Trauma: Anxiety, depression, or PTSD following the accident.
Liability in Parking Lot Pedestrian Accidents
Determining liability in parking lot accidents can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. The Adley Law Firm investigates every angle to ensure that all liable parties are held accountable.
1. Driver Liability
- Negligent Behavior: Drivers are responsible for operating their vehicles safely, even in parking lots. Failing to yield, speeding, or driving distractedly often makes the driver at fault.
- Backing Collisions: Drivers who fail to check their surroundings while reversing are commonly held liable.
2. Property Owner Liability
Stores and property owners, such as H-E-B, Walmart, or shopping malls, have a duty to maintain safe parking lots. They may be held liable for:
- Poor Lighting: Creating dangerous conditions for pedestrians.
- Lack of Proper Markings: Failing to provide clear crosswalks or pedestrian pathways.
- Neglected Maintenance: Allowing hazards like potholes or obstructed views.
3. Pedestrian Responsibility
Pedestrians must also exercise reasonable caution. Crossing outside of designated areas or failing to pay attention can contribute to an accident. Texas follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that if a pedestrian is found partially at fault, their compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault.
Steps to Take After a Parking Lot Pedestrian Accident
If you are injured in a parking lot accident, taking the right actions can protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated by a medical professional.
- Report the Accident: Notify the property manager or store where the accident occurred. Many stores like H-E-B or Walmart have incident reporting procedures.
- Call the Police: A police report can provide critical evidence.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of your injuries, the accident location, and any contributing factors, such as poor lighting or unclear markings.
- Collect Witness Information: Witnesses can corroborate your account of the accident.
- Consult an Attorney: An experienced lawyer can guide you through the process of filing a claim and recovering compensation.
Contact the Adley Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one were injured in a parking lot accident at H-E-B, Walmart, or any other Houston location, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. The Adley Law Firm is here to help you recover compensation and hold negligent parties accountable.
