Parking lot accidents in Bloomfield are often minor. The drivers exchange contact and insurance details, each filing a claim with their New Jersey insurance provider. Insurance providers process and resolve the claims, allowing drivers to accept settlements for repairs. However, there are times when the proposed settlement is not enough. That is when speaking with an experienced car accident attorney can clarify your options and get you the compensation you deserve.
The Challenges of Driving in Parking Lots
Parking lots are common areas where vehicle accidents frequently happen due to factors like driver distractions and limited visibility. Drivers are sometimes distracted by the passengers in the vehicle, preoccupied with finding a parking space, mentally crossing errands off their to-do list, or thinking about where to go next.
Parking lots also have limited visibility. With high-profile vehicles obstructing sightlines, seeing traffic or pedestrians when pulling out of or into a parking spot may be difficult. Congested parking lots further complicate driving by constricting maneuverability as cars enter or leave.
When parking lot collisions happen in Bloomfield, drivers may be unaware of the laws governing such accidents. Our knowledgeable attorneys will help drivers address liability questions. Common questions include who has the right of way, and who is at fault when merging.
Cell Phone Use
According to state law, drivers are allowed to use cell phones in parking lots if their cars are stationary. Once in motion, they must use a hands-free device to operate their cell phones. Motorists who violate these laws may be liable for an accident.
Who Has the Right of Way?
New Jersey drivers attempting to merge from a feeder lane must give way to oncoming traffic. They must also yield when making a left turn across traffic. Failure-to-yield violations can result in fines, two points on a driving record, and possible jail time.
Are Reversing Vehicles Always At Fault?
Drivers leaving a parking space should use their mirrors and sightlines to minimize accident risks. They should slowly reverse out of a parking spot to stop quickly and clear the traffic lane, yielding to the oncoming traffic. However, drivers in feeder lanes have a duty of care for others. Under the state’s comparative negligence laws, reversing drivers may share responsibility for an accident. An experienced personal injury attorney can help explain comparative negligence laws and how they may reduce liability.
Who is At Fault When Merging into Traffic?
Drivers merging into traffic from a parking lot must yield to oncoming traffic. These failure-to-yield accidents often result in more severe injuries as the oncoming traffic may be going at the posted speed rather than the 15 miles per hour in a parking lot.
What Compensation Is Available for Parking Lot Accidents?
Insurance coverage plays a vital role when you are involved in a parking lot accident, especially with the state’s no-fault insurance requirements. All drivers must carry insurance, and coverage can vary from collision-only to comprehensive. The main types of insurance coverage include:
- Basic Coverage: Covers damages you cause to other vehicles or property.
- Collision Coverage: Pays for repairs to your own vehicle, regardless of who is at fault.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects your car from non-collision incidents, such as theft or natural disasters.
- Standard Insurance Policies: Combine collision and comprehensive coverage, depending on your policy choices.
A lawyer in Bloomfield can guide you through the claims process and ensure you maximize your benefits in a parking lot crash case.
Why Consult an Attorney?
Drivers can usually handle fender-benders without injuries through insurance claims, but not all parking lot collisions are straightforward. Injured parties have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. They must provide documentation such as medical records, treatment plans, and proof of lost wages to receive compensation. Finally, they must negotiate a final settlement.
Navigating the complexities of a choice no-fault system can be overwhelming, with nuances that only an experienced law firm understands. Working with dedicated attorneys in Bloomfield who understand parking lot crashes can ease the strain that personal injury claims can cause while helping injured parties receive the compensation they deserve.
Call to Secure Compensation for Parking Lot Accidents in Bloomfield
Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC, has been working to resolve parking lot accidents in Bloomfield for years. Our experienced team offers free consultations to gather information and review the case. With our large-firm resources, our lawyers deliver a small firm touch while negotiating the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.
