Parking lot accidents spike during the holiday season

From now until the end of December, holiday shoppers will be out in full force. In the midst of the hustle and bustle, drivers and pedestrians are more distracted than ever, especially in parking lots and garages. The Pennsylvania personal injury lawyers at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys want to remind everyone to slow down and take care as you run your holiday errands this season.

Parking lot car crashes and pedestrian accidents

Many drivers tend to be less cautious when navigating a parking lot than out on the open road. In a National Safety Council poll, more than half of respondents said they would be likely to talk on the phone, text, program their GPS, use social media, and even check email when driving through a parking lot or parking structure. Add to that the distraction of to-do lists, the impatience and frustration of crowded shopping centers, the possibility of winter weather, and it’s easy to see how parking lot accidents spike during the holiday season.

Don’t let the stress or excitement of the holidays keep you from being safe. Drive at a safe speed (in a crowded lot, this means slower than normal), watch where you’re going, and minimize distraction. Drive defensively – remember that other stressed-out drivers might not be paying as much attention as you are. And always check carefully before backing your vehicle out of space. Most pedestrian accidents in parking lots are caused by someone backing up! Don’t rely on a backup camera, because they don’t always pick up on smaller obstacles like children or strollers.

Parking lot slip and falls

In the winter, snow and ice can make parking lots treacherous for shoppers. If the stores are busy with the holiday rush, the staff might not remember to clear their premises and walkways. But if someone falls and gets seriously hurt, the business or property owner could be responsible.

When the weather is bad, take extra care if you have to be out running errands. Walk slowly, wear weather-friendly shoes, and keep your hands outside of your pockets to help you keep your balance in case you slip.

Even once you’ve made it inside the store, be aware of your surroundings in case snow gets tracked in on the floors. If you see a potential hazard, inform an employee.

Our personal injury team wishes you a safe holiday season

The holiday season should be a joyful time filled with family and community. We know it’s easy to get drawn into the stress of shopping, cooking, baking, decorating, entertaining, and traveling. It can be overwhelming. But don’t let the desire to get it all done to be the cause of a tragedy for you or someone else.

Accidents do happen. If you find yourself in harm’s way this holiday season, we’ll be here to help make it right. If you get hurt by another driver or an unsafe parking lot or parking garage, call or inquire online as soon as possible to arrange a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer. We will help you understand your rights and work to make sure you get the fair compensation you need to cover your medical expenses and other losses.