If you go shopping at a gas station or convenience store, you expect to get in and out of the store safely. If you have been hit in a parking lot, you have suffered damages.
You can recover compensation for your losses through a personal injury claim against the other driver or the store or both – depending on who was at fault and the situation. Sometimes accidents are completely because of the negligence of a driver, but if the design of that particular parking lot, or because of unmaintained premises or things blocking your view, you can hold the gas station or store liable as well.
What to Do After Being Hit In a Parking Lot
If you have been hit in a parking lot, you will need to report it. Call the police and ask them to complete an accident report. While sometimes officers will not come to the scene of an accident on private property, such as those in a parking lot. They often will do just that, and they will complete an accident report.
You should take photos of the accident scene from all angles, including the damages. Also, ask any witnesses for statements and ask any witnesses for their names and contact information. Maintain thorough documentation that shows your damages.
If you suffered any injuries, even if they were minor, you should be checked by a medical professional the day of the accident. This will confirm the injuries were connected to being hit in the parking lot. Here are some documents you can use to maintain as evidence of the damages sustained from being hit in the parking lot.
- Accident report
- Photos of the accident scene and damages
- Repair estimates
- Medical bills
- Proof of missed work and lost wages
- Witness statements
Documentation is essential to the success of your personal injury claim after having been hit in the parking lot. Maintain everything that you can gather to support your case and to show what caused the crash.
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been hit in a parking lot, you should consult with a personal injury attorney who handles accident injury claims in your state. With the help of an attorney, you are much more likely to recoup compensation for your damages.
By working with an auto accident lawyer, you can provide supporting documentation and then show what damages resulted as well as who is at fault for the parking lot accident. You will not pay attorney fees or invoices upfront but rather once you win your case. This is becuase personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis.
There is a strict timeframe, known as statute of limitations, to file your claim so get your claim underway before it is too late to recover your damages. Schedule your Free Case Evaluation today.
*Disclaimer: The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Safeway, or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.