Throughout the month of December and into the new year, parking lots will be crammed as Portland residents make their holiday preparations. Unfortunately, amidst the fun of buying gifts and planning for celebrations with family and friends, it is important to be aware of parking lot hazards. Car accidents in parking lots become increasingly common at this time of year. While these accidents are often referred to as minor fender benders, the fact is they can end up resulting in serious and even life-threatening injuries.
How Serious Are Parking Lot Car Accidents?
While parking lot car accidents may seem like nothing major, the fact is they pose a dangerous threat. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), roughly 500 drivers and passengers end up losing their lives in these types of collisions each year, while more than 60,000 others suffer serious and, in some cases, disabling injuries. These accidents tend to become more common over the holiday season, as busy shoppers flock to local stores.
It is easy to get distracted at this time of year in the rush to keep up with demands at work and at home. Unfortunately, driver distraction and speeding are among the most common causes of parking lot collisions. Even a seemingly minor fender bender can leave you suffering the following injuries:
- Muscle or tendon strains, sprains, and tears;
- Broken bones and fractures;
- Back and neck injuries, such as whiplash and slipped or ruptured discs;
- Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injury.
Regardless of the damage to your vehicle, it is important to realize that any bump, blow, or jolt to the body is capable of producing injuries that can be severe. You should report any car accident you are involved in to the police and seek medical attention immediately. Make sure to get the other driver’s contact information and report the accident to your insurer to protect your rights in a claim.
Common Car Accidents Occurring in Parking Lots
According to Ameriprise Insurance, determining who is responsible for a car accident generally depends on who had the right of way and which car was moving at the time. Ameriprise reports there are five common types of parking-related car accidents:
- Two drivers race to the same space and end up in a collision.
- Two drivers back into each other as both are backing out;
- One driver backs out of a space, and into an oncoming vehicle;
- One person drives forward out of a space, and into oncoming traffic.
- Rear-end collisions, which occur when one vehicle crashes into another while sitting at a parking lot stop sign or when letting pedestrians pass.
If you end up in a parking lot accident this holiday season, reach out to our Portland car accident attorney. Seemingly minor injuries you suffer can end up having long term impacts on your health. Call or contact the Johnston Law Firm online today and request a free consultation.