Parking garages are incredibly important structures. Not only do they provide a safe place to store vehicles, but they also free up space on the street, subsequently reducing traffic as drivers do not have to slow down to look for parking spots. However, you may find that despite their benefits, accidents can occur in these structures. Understanding how they happen and who can be held liable for injuries endured is vital. The following blog explores what you must know about parking garage accidents and how a Broward County personal injury attorney can assist you during these challenging times.
How Do Parking Garage Accidents Happen?
Though less common than other accidents, incidents in parking garages can have life-altering impacts. Generally, these accidents can occur due to drivers or safety issues with the garage itself.
Many accidents happen because of driver error. For example, if a driver does not adhere to the often low-speed limit in place, they may collide with another vehicle. Similarly, drivers who do not look when backing out of spaces can crash into passing cars. Unfortunately, pedestrians are impacted as well. Because parking garages are narrow, a driver who is not paying attention or driving too fast may lose control of their vehicle. As such, they can collide with people walking to or from their cars.
Additionally, issues can arise if the parking garage is not properly maintained. For example, unsafe stairwells, broken elevators, inadequate lighting, poor designs, and failure to include adequate signage can all impact pedestrians and drivers.
Those involved in parking garage accidents can endure any of the following injuries:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Neck and spinal cord damage
- Sprains
- Contusions
Who Can Be Held Liable for Damages That Occur?
If you are injured while walking or driving in a parking garage, understanding the entity that can face liability is crucial.
In general, drivers who cause accidents will be held liable for their negligence, especially if they were speeding or distracted by their cell phone. However, if the accident occurred because of an issue with the structure, the property owner can be held responsible. For example, if a hanging sign falls on a vehicle driving beneath it, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle and hit another car or person, the owner of the garage would likely be liable if they had not performed the necessary maintenance on the signs. Similarly, if a pedestrian is injured in a stairwell or elevator, the owner of the garage will likely face liability.
If you were injured in a parking garage and know who can be held liable, it’s imperative to fight for the compensation you deserve. At the Finizio Law Group, we understand how complex personal injury cases can be. As such, our dedicated team will fight for the justice you are entitled to when another party’s negligence leads to your injuries. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you during these challenging times.
