Parking lots can be bizarre. All those automobiles coming and going can increase anyone’s chances of being in a parking lot accident, especially in Raleigh with its popular shopping destinations like Crabtree Valley Mall.
But because parking lot accidents occur on private property, some drivers may believe they are treated differently than typical car accidents. But that is not the case. Here are some questions that drivers usually have when involved in an accident in a parking lot.
In a parking lot crash, how is fault determined?
An accident in a parking lot is investigated in the same way that a collision on a road or highway is investigated. To evaluate liability, your insurer will examine testimony from drivers, witnesses, and consider the damages to all vehicles involved. Many car insurers also use their own fault determination rules.
Is a parking lot collision going to affect your insurance rate?
Unless you have an accident forgiveness clause on your policy, being found at fault in a parking lot accident will affect your rate. Insurance companies do not differentiate between accidents that occur on private land and those that occur on public streets.
When a Parking Lot Accident is Covered by Insurance
It’s important to determine who is to blame after a parking lot accident. Which insurer covers the accident will be determined by the responsible driver.
If the Accident Was Someone Else’s Fault
If the accident was caused by another driver, their car insurance company is liable. Here are some of the things that the driver’s insurance may cover:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Vehicle damage
- Pain and suffering
- Rental car during repairs
Fortunately, the majority of parking lot collisions are minor, but you can file a claim for your damages with the other driver’s insurance company.
However, before you file your claim, be sure you understand all of your expenses associated with the accident. Your injuries or vehicle damage may be more serious than you think. To be sure, you may want to see a doctor and have your car inspected.
If the parking lot accident occured in Raleigh, NC, you can obtain a police report here: Police Report
If the Accident Was Your Fault
In North Carolina, all drivers are required to carry liability insurance coverage and that will kick in if you caused the accident. Your insurance company will investigate and if you’re found to be at fault, your auto liability coverage should cover the expenses of the other driver. Some of your expenses may also be covered by your liability insurance.
Determining Who Was at Fault
After a parking lot collision, insurance companies will examine the police report, vehicle damage evidence, and witness accounts. The insurance will establish who was at fault after evaluating the evidence.
In most cases, auto insurers determine that one driver is totally to blame for the accident. But sometimes it’s determined that each driver shares the blame. The insurer will contact you to inform you of their decision.
Conclusion:
Unfortunately, parking lot accidents happen. But each customer of Superior Insurance in North Carolina has a personal insurance advisor who will help them through the entire process. Just contact one of our 2 offices in Durham NC, Durham North Insurance Office and Durham South Insurance Office or one of our 2 offices in Raleigh, NC, North Raleigh Insurance Office and South Raleigh Insurance Office and an agent will help you right away.
