Parking lots are deceptively dangerous places for pedestrians. While vehicles are typically moving at lower speeds, the close quarters, limited visibility, and distractions create a high risk of serious injuries. Being involved in a vehicle versus pedestrian accident is almost always serious for the pedestrian.
While pedestrian fatalities in New York City are down 19 percent based on data from the first half of 2025, we should always remain vigilant. Sometimes parking lots can be places where we let our guard down and stop paying attention to our surroundings. If you or a loved one has been hit by a car in a parking lot, you may be entitled to compensation.
Cellino Law offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. Whether you were injured in a retail parking lot, apartment complex, or office park, we’re here to help. Call us or fill out the online form so we can handle the legal work while you focus on recovering.
How Do Parking Lot Pedestrian Accidents Happen?
Pedestrian accidents in parking lots often occur due to driver negligence. Common causes include distracted driving, failing to yield, speeding through lanes, or reversing without checking blind spots. Additionally, poor lighting, unclear signage, and design flaws can contribute to unsafe conditions.
Drivers may be looking for a spot or checking their phones rather than watching for people walking between vehicles. Children and elderly pedestrians are especially vulnerable due to their slower reaction times and smaller stature. Even cautious pedestrians can be struck by inattentive drivers making sudden moves.
Weather conditions like snow, rain, or ice can also make accidents more likely by reducing traction and visibility. Some drivers may not adjust their speeds in slippery conditions, increasing the likelihood of collisions. Whether the cause is carelessness or unsafe infrastructure, the injuries can be life-changing.
What Is a Parking Lot Legally?
From a legal standpoint, a parking lot is private property but generally treated as a public space when accessible to the general public. This means that traffic laws and rules of right-of-way still apply in parking lots, even though they are not a public road. Drivers and pedestrians alike have a legal obligation to act with reasonable care.
The property owner has a duty to maintain a safe premises, which includes fixing hazards like potholes, broken lighting, or faded pedestrian walkways. Failure to address these issues could make the property owner partly liable in the event of an accident. Signage, striping, and designated walkways also play a role in determining fault.
In cases involving commercial parking lots, such as at malls or grocery stores, liability may involve multiple parties, including store owners, lot managers, and third-party maintenance companies. Understanding how the law treats these areas is essential in determining who is responsible for a pedestrian’s injuries.
What Should a Pedestrian Do After an Accident?
If you’re hit by a vehicle in a parking lot, the first step is to seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries, like head trauma or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. Calling 911 ensures you get care and creates an official record of the incident.
Next, document the scene if you’re able. Take pictures of the car, license plate, parking lot layout, injuries, and any skid marks or signs. Get names and contact details of witnesses and ask nearby businesses for a copy of any security footage if available.
It’s important to avoid admitting fault or making statements to the driver’s insurance company without legal guidance. Instead, contact a personal injury lawyer who can protect your rights and begin the process of filing a claim. The sooner you act, the better your chances of building a strong case.
Who Is Liable in a Parking Lot Pedestrian Accident?
Liability in these accidents depends on the circumstances, but most often the driver is at fault for failing to exercise reasonable caution. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and designated walking areas; failing to do so is typically considered negligence.
Even if a pedestrian is outside a marked path, drivers still owe them a duty of care. While each case is unique, certain parties are commonly considered to be liable.
In addition to the driver, the following parties may be liable:
- The property owner
- Management company
- Maintenance company
- Business owners
Determining who may be at fault for your accident can be complicated. Trusting a trustworthy, award-winning law firm can help you rest easy, knowing your case is in good hands.
However, pedestrians can also be found partially liable if they were distracted, jaywalking, or crossing behind vehicles. In New York, comparative negligence law means that your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. This makes it especially important to have an experienced attorney evaluate your case.
In some situations, the property owner or management company may share responsibility. For example, if poor lighting, lack of signs, or dangerous design contributed to the accident, the property owner might be held liable. A thorough investigation can reveal all the parties who may owe you compensation.
How Cellino Law Can Help
Cellino Law has 6 decades of experience in helping accident victims across New York recover compensation for their injuries. Our team understands the complex nature of parking lot accidents and knows how to gather evidence, work with experts, and negotiate with insurance companies. We focus on results so you can focus on healing.
We will investigate the circumstances of your accident, identify all responsible parties, and pursue maximum compensation for your damages – such as medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. If necessary, we’re ready to take your case to court to fight for the justice you deserve. Our attorneys are skilled in proving negligence and navigating the legal complexities of premises liability.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a parking lot pedestrian accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Time is crucial in preserving evidence and building your case. Call Cellino Law today at 888-888-8888 for a free, no-obligation consultation and get the legal support you need to move forward.