Parking lot accidents can be serious for those involved, including drivers and pedestrians alike. Accidents in these locations are commonly the result of negligent drivers, but dangerous property conditions, like potholes, inadequate lighting, and improper maintenance, can also lead to injuries. Depending on the circumstances, injured victims may be eligible to recover compensation for the injuries they have suffered. If you were hurt in a Bergen County parking lot, you will need to retain the services of one of our experienced Bergen County personal injury attorneys today.
What Are the Common Causes of Parking Lot Accidents in Bergen County?
There are a number of causes of parking lot accidents; however, most of them are a result of a negligent parking lot owner. In many instances, the owner of the property fails to ensure the conditions of the parking lot are safe for lawful visitors. In other cases, negligent drivers can create dangerous situations for others traveling throughout the lot. However, under New Jersey personal injury law, injured victims are eligible to recover compensation when the negligent actions of another party result in an accident and subsequent injuries.
Common Causes of Parking Lot Accidents
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Failing to yield to pedestrians
- Back-out collisions
- Reduced visibility due to poor lighting
- Slippery surfaces from the weather
- Potholes
- Failure to maintain safe conditions
Who Can Face Liability for a Parking Lot Accident
Liability for injury suffered in a parking lot accident will ultimately fall to the party that is responsible for maintaining the property or creating the unsafe conditions. As such, this may include:
- The property owner
- Maintenance contractors
- Negligent drivers
- Snow and ice removal contractors
- Businesses responsible for parking lot maintenance
How Are Claims in Bergen County Evaluated?
In Bergen County, parking lot accident claims are generally dependent on:
- Whether or not the property owner knew or should have known about the hazard
- If the condition existed long enough that it should have been remedied
- The driver violated traffic or safety laws
- The injured party was a lawful entity on the property
What Types of Injuries Can Be Sustained After a Parking Lot Accident?
Whether you slip and fall in a Paramus supermarket parking lot or you are struck by a negligent driver while exiting a Hackensack doctor’s office, the wide array of potential accidents means victims may sustain a number of injuries as a result. Unfortunately, even a low-speed collision or a slip and fall caused by unsafe conditions can lead to lifelong, expensive damages.
Common Parking Lot Accident Injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Neck and spinal cord injuries
- Back injuries
- Sprains and strains
- Contusions and lacerations
- Knee and shoulder damage
Can I Pursue Legal Action?
If you suffered injuries as a result of the negligent actions of another party, it’s critical to understand that you generally have the right to pursue legal action against the entity responsible. However, the type of legal claim you pursue will depend on the circumstances of the accident.
Potential Legal Claims
- Premises liability claims against negligent property owners
- Personal injury claims against negligent drivers
- Commercial property negligence claims
- Wrongful death claims, in the event of a fatal injury
- Negligent security claims
Statute of Limitations in Bergen County
It’s critical to understand that in New Jersey, there is a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, premises liability claims, and wrongful death claims. As such, you generally only have two years from the date on which the incident occurred to pursue legal action. Failure to do so before this statute expires can render you ineligible to seek compensation.
What Compensation Can You Recover Following a Parking Lot Accident in New Jersey?
Because parking lot injuries can result in serious injuries, victims often suffer both financially and emotionally. As such, you may be eligible to seek both economic and non-economic damages for the injuries and pain you have suffered as a result.
Potential Compensation
- Medical expenses
- Future medical care
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Contact Our Experienced Bergen County Personal Injury Firm
When someone is injured due to another party’s negligence in Hackensack, Paramus, Ridgewood, or any other Bergen County community, it is only right that they receive the justice they deserve. As a victim, your only job is to call us, and we will take it from there. Please, do yourself a favor and do not wait. If you or someone you know was injured in an accident and is seeking financial compensation, contact the legal team at McNerney & McAuliffe today.