Who is At-Fault in a Parking Lot Car Accident?

Parking lot accidents are more common than one might think, and determining fault in these situations can be complex. Many factors come into play, such as local laws, signage, and right-of-way rules. In this blog, we will describe the various scenarios that can occur in parking lot accidents and shed light on who may be at fault in different circumstances.

  1. General Rules of the Road Apply:

    Even though parking lots may have a different layout and lower speeds compared to regular roads, drivers are still expected to follow basic traffic laws. This means obeying traffic signs and signals, ALWAYS yielding to pedestrians, and maintaining a reasonable speed while maneuvering through the parking lot. Usual posted speed limit in most parking lots in Washington State is between 5mph and 15 mph.

  2. Rear-End Collisions:

    When a rear-end collision occurs in a parking lot, the driver who rear-ends the other vehicle is typically considered at fault. The reasoning behind this is that drivers have a responsibility to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them, regardless of the location.

  3. Backing-Up Accidents:

    In cases where a vehicle is backing up and collides with another vehicle or a pedestrian, the fault can vary depending on the circumstances. Generally, the driver backing up has a greater responsibility to ensure the path is clear and should proceed with caution. Per RCW 46.61.605, the driver of a vehicle shall not back up the unless such can be made with safety and without interfering with other traffic. However, there may be some limitations. If the other party was speeding, driving recklessly, or inattentive, they may share or bear the fault entirely.

  4. Right-of-Way Disputes:

    Parking lots often have uncontrolled intersections or areas where vehicles and pedestrians must navigate through. Determining right-of-way in these situations can be tricky. While many parking lots have designated walkways and stop signs, it's important for all parties to exercise caution and yield when necessary. Failure to yield to a pedestrian or another vehicle that has the right-of-way can result in the at-fault party being held responsible.

    Remember, every car accident is unique and you should always consult an attorney if you were involved in a car accident. Determining fault in parking lot accidents requires a careful examination of the specific circumstances surrounding the incident. While certain rules of the road apply, there are unique considerations in parking lot environments. We highly recommend consulting with a personal injury attorney who specializes in motor vehicle accidents today by calling us at (206) 673-1612 . We can help you navigate the complexities of your case.