Accidents can happen when we least expect them. In most cities, parking lot accidents are extremely common. It can be extremely difficult to determine liability when a collision occurs in a parking lot.
If you are involved in a parking lot accident, secure legal representation with El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers. Their passionate and highly-qualified Los Angeles car accident attorneys have the necessary experience to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Who will be held responsible for an accident when backing up?
Determining fault in a car accident can be complicated, especially when one or more of the involved parties were backing up. In most instances, if you are backing up and you strike a stationary vehicle, you will be held responsible.
There are several different car accident scenarios that involve one or more person backing up, including:
- A driver backing up and hitting a parked car
- A driver backing up and hitting a moving vehicle
- Two vehicles backing up and colliding with each other
- A driver backing out of a driveway and onto the roadway
The at-fault party can be different in each of these scenarios. It is your responsibility to be aware of your environment when backing out. If you strike a vehicle while backing out of a parking space or driveway, you will be held responsible for the sustained damages and injuries.
However, when an incident involves two or more vehicles, determining fault is a complicated process. Unless there is video surveillance that can be used to determine which party was responsible for the collision, the at-fault party cannot be identified in most cases.
How is fault determined in backing up accidents?
When you are involved in a car accident that occurred while you or another person was backing up, determining who is a fault will involve:
- Identifying which driver had the right of way.
- Deciding which car was moving or stationary
- Assessing the location of the damage
- Collecting witness statements
- Reviewing surveillance videos, if available
How to avoid backing up car accidents
To avoid a car accident while reversing, it is important to ensure your way is clear from oncoming traffic by checking your surroundings and using your mirrors or any back-up technology your vehicle may have to assist you. Avoid quickly reversing out of a parking space; you never know if there is another oncoming vehicle.
Contact a car accident attorney
Call the offices of El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers today if you have been involved in a car accident while backing up. Our experienced Los Angeles Car Accident Attorneys will protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you need to cover any damages that were sustained during the accident.