$1.25 Million Settlement: Grungo Law Advocates for Pedestrian Injury in Parking Lot Accident

Parking lots, often perceived as low-risk zones, can be surprisingly dangerous for pedestrians. According to the National Safety Council, over 60,000 people are injured in parking lots every year. In a recent case highlighting these dangers, Grungo Law secured a \$1.25 million settlement for a client who suffered serious injuries after being struck by a vehicle in a parking lot. This significant recovery underscores the firm’s commitment to advocating for victims of pedestrian accidents and the substantial impact these incidents can have on individuals’ lives.

The Reality of Parking Lot Accidents

While we often associate serious traffic accidents with high-speed highways, parking lots present their own unique set of hazards. Limited visibility, distracted drivers, and the mix of pedestrians and vehicles in close proximity contribute to a high risk of collisions. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 20% of all reported vehicle accidents occur in parking lots. In New Jersey, a three-year study revealed that 17% of all vehicle-pedestrian collisions occurred in parking facilities.

These accidents can result in severe injuries for pedestrians, who lack the protection of a vehicle. Common injuries include fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal organ damage. The consequences of these injuries can be life-altering, leading to long-term medical care, lost wages, and significant pain and suffering.

Factors Contributing to Parking Lot Accidents

Several factors contribute to the high incidence of pedestrian accidents in parking lots:

Distracted Driving: A significant number of drivers admit to engaging in distracting activities while navigating parking lots. Two-thirds of drivers report driving while distracted in parking lots, with over half texting, using social media, or programming GPS systems.
Failure to Yield: Drivers often fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, especially when backing out of parking spaces or navigating through parking aisles.
Speeding: Despite low speed limits, some drivers speed through parking lots, reducing their reaction time and increasing the risk of collisions.
Poor Visibility: Inadequate lighting, especially at night, can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians.
Lack of Awareness: Both drivers and pedestrians may become complacent in parking lots, failing to pay adequate attention to their surroundings.

Liability in Parking Lot Accidents

Determining liability in parking lot accidents can be complex, often depending on factors such as right-of-way rules, negligence, and specific circumstances of the crash. Generally, the responsible party can fall into three categories: drivers, property owners, and third parties.

Drivers: Drivers have a duty of care to follow parking lot signs, maintain a safe speed, and be vigilant of pedestrians and other vehicles. A breach in any of these responsibilities could make a driver liable for any resulting accidents.
Property Owners: Property owners have an obligation to ensure their parking lots are safely maintained. This includes providing adequate lighting, clear signage, and safe walkways for pedestrians. If an accident is found to be caused by negligence in maintaining these standards, the property owner could be held responsible.
Third Parties: Third parties include other entities like maintenance companies or contractors who might have contributed to unsafe conditions leading to an accident.

In some instances, liability may be shared among multiple parties. For example, if a driver was speeding in a poorly lit parking lot, both the driver and the property owner might be found partially at fault.

Grungo Law’s Commitment to Pedestrian Safety

Grungo Law’s recent \$1.25 million settlement demonstrates the firm’s dedication to advocating for victims of pedestrian accidents. In this case, attorney Brad Parker worked closely with the client, providing clear communication and personalized support throughout the legal process. The recovery underscores the substantial financial implications of pedestrian accidents in seemingly low-risk areas like parking lots.

Richard Grungo Jr., Esq., CEO and founder of Grungo Law, emphasized that such accidents can impact every part of a person’s life and that the firm focuses on providing steady guidance and diligent advocacy. The firm’s approach combines technology with advocacy built on values including communication and commitment.

Advice for Pedestrians and Drivers

To prevent parking lot accidents and protect pedestrians, it’s crucial for both drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines:

For Pedestrians:

Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions: Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid texting or talking on the phone while walking through parking lots.
Increase Visibility: Wear bright clothing, especially during low-light conditions.
Use Designated Crosswalks: Always use designated crosswalks when crossing parking lot lanes.
Mind the Flow of Traffic: Pay attention to the flow of vehicles and walk against the direction of traffic when there are no sidewalks.
Avoid Walking Behind Reversing Vehicles: Exercise caution around parked cars, especially when they are backing out.
Watch for Blind Spots: Be mindful of drivers’ blind spots and make eye contact with drivers whenever possible.
Supervise Children: Keep children close and hold their hands, teaching them safe pedestrian practices.

For Drivers:

Slow Down: Adhere to posted speed limits and drive slowly through parking lots.
Avoid Distractions: Refrain from texting, using social media, or engaging in other distracting activities while driving.
Yield to Pedestrians: Always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, especially in crosswalks and parking aisles.
Check for Pedestrians When Backing Up: Be especially cautious when backing out of a parking space, checking for pedestrians before and during the maneuver.
Be Aware of Surroundings: Pay attention to other vehicles and pedestrians in the area.

Seeking Legal Assistance

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in a parking lot, it’s essential to seek legal assistance from an experienced personal injury attorney. A knowledgeable attorney can help you understand your rights, investigate the accident, and pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.

Grungo Law offers free consultations and operates on a contingency fee basis, ensuring clients can pursue a case without upfront costs. With a proven track record of success and a commitment to client-centered advocacy, Grungo Law is a trusted resource for pedestrian accident victims in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The firm’s certified trial attorneys can navigate complex claims to achieve outcomes that address both immediate and long-term needs of accident victims.

The Importance of Parking Lot Safety

Parking lot accidents are a serious issue that can result in significant injuries and financial hardship. By raising awareness of the risks and promoting safe practices, we can work together to make parking lots safer for everyone. The \$1.25 million settlement secured by Grungo Law serves as a reminder of the importance of legal advocacy in personal injury cases and the need for skilled representation to navigate complex claims and achieve just outcomes for accident victims.