Most drivers assume parking lots are safe zones, but Bakersfield sees preventable collisions in these seemingly harmless spaces every year. The tight spaces, limited visibility, and mix of vehicles and pedestrians create a perfect storm for accidents that can leave you dealing with injuries, property damage, and insurance headaches.
Whether you’re backing out of a space at the mall or navigating the crowded lots at local grocery stores, the risk of collision remains surprisingly high. You may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical bills, property damage, and other losses—as long as someone else was responsible. A car accident attorney in Bakersfield is here to help.
Common Causes of Parking Lot Accidents in Bakersfield
The congested nature of Bakersfield’s popular shopping areas contributes to frequent collisions, especially during peak hours and holiday seasons. Some of the most common causes of parking lot accidents include:
- Distracted driving while searching for parking spaces or checking phones
- Failure to yield the right-of-way at parking lot intersections
- Backing out without checking blind spots or using mirrors properly
- Speeding through parking aisles despite the dangers
- Poor visibility due to large vehicles, inadequate lighting, or weather conditions
- Aggressive driving behaviors when competing for limited parking spaces
Who Is at Fault in Parking Lot Collisions?
California operates as a fault state, meaning the driver who caused the accident bears financial responsibility for damages. In parking lot collisions, determining fault often depends on the sequence of events leading to these accidents.
For example, drivers backing out of spaces are usually at fault if they strike a vehicle traveling through the main thoroughfare, as moving traffic generally has the right-of-way. However, fault shifts to the through-traffic driver if they were speeding or driving recklessly. When two vehicles back out simultaneously and collide, both drivers may share fault. Security footage, witness statements, and vehicle damage patterns help establish who failed to exercise reasonable care.
Types of Injuries from Parking Lot Accidents
Parking lot accidents can cause severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment and recovery time. The sudden impact often catches victims off guard, preventing them from bracing for impact.
Some of these injuries include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Back injuries and herniated discs
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Sprains, strains, and contusions
- Psychological trauma and anxiety
Even if you feel like the collision was minor, it is important to seek medical care after your accident. Some injuries might not show any symptoms right away, and you should get checked out to avoid potential complications.
Insurance Challenges After a Parking Lot Collision
Recovering fair compensation after a parking lot accident often proves more difficult than expected. Insurance companies frequently dispute liability in parking lot cases, arguing that both parties share fault or that your damages are not as severe as you claimed.
A Bakersfield injury attorney can counter these tactics by gathering surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and working with accident reconstruction experts to prove liability. Your lawyer can also document the full extent of your injuries and negotiate aggressively to recover fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Protecting Your Rights After a Parking Lot Accident
Parking lot accidents might seem minor, but they often result in significant property damage and serious injuries, especially to pedestrians and elderly shoppers. Rodriguez & Associates has spent years fighting for the rights of parking lot accident victims—we know what it takes to recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us at (661) 777-7575 for a thorough evaluation of your parking lot accident case and start your fight for justice.