How to Handle a Parking Lot Accidents in Maryland
With the holiday season coming to an end, there is a good chance that you or someone you know was recently involved in a parking lot accident. While most parking lot accidents do not involve fatalities or serious injuries, there are still plenty of opportunities to be hurt in a low-speed collision. However, car crashes are not the only type of parking lot accident. What if you slipped and fell or were assaulted by someone? This is when you need a Maryland personal injury attorney who can advise whether or not you have a viable claim against another party.
Why Hire an Attorney for a Maryland Parking Lot Accident?
There can be multiple causes of action and different parties who are liable. This is especially common in slip and fall accidents in which different companies may be responsible for maintaining the parking lot. Your attorney will pursue all parties who are at fault and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
A successful personal injury claim can result in reimbursement for medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, and loss of earnings. Because Maryland follows the strict theory of contributory liability, you can not be even 1% at fault for the loss or you are barred from recovery.
Evidence for a Parking Lot Claim
Your attorney will get maintenance records, help track down any witnesses, or even hire experts as needed to help prove the other party or parties were 100% liable. The most important evidence includes:
- Incident Reports: Large malls and shopping centers typically have security officers who drive around the parking lot to help customers feel safer and prevent break-ins. If security responds, ask about filing an incident report.
- Security Camera Footage: If there are security cameras present, the footage can be some of the most important evidence. However, the owner may be less inclined to hand over the footage, this is where the expertise of an attorney is important.
- Witness Statements: If there were any witnesses to the accident or incident, get their contact information.
- Photography/Video: If you can, take photos and/or video of the scene before the vehicles are moved.
Your Rights in a Maryland Parking Lot Accident
If you were not at fault for the accident, you are entitled to be “made whole” again. Here are examples of potential at-fault parties:
- A parking lot operator failed to recognize security risks and did not respond.
- Parking lot owners or property owners who do not keep track of parking lot maintenance, repairs, and safety.
- A vehicle driver who was negligent and careless when backing out of a parking spot or was distracted by something that resulted in an accident.
- Someone who assaults you after a parking spot dispute.
There are a variety of factors that can lead to a premises liability claim due to a parking lot accident. Debris that is not cleaned up, bad lighting, improper security, or even a bad parking lot design can be factors that cause someone to be injured.
Retaining an Attorney
If you or a loved one was involved in a parking lot accident, contact the Law Office of Robert R. Castro at 301-870-1200 to schedule a consultation.
