Parking Lot Accidents at Wiregrass, International Plaza, and Brandon Town Center: Proving Fault and Getting Paid

 Accidents in parking lots, such as those at Wiregrass, International Plaza, and Brandon Town Center, are common but can be complex when it comes to proving fault. These types of accidents involve multiple parties, including pedestrians and drivers, and typically occur in tight spaces with limited visibility. This blog post will break down the key factors in proving fault, understanding liability, and navigating the process of filing a claim for compensation after such an accident. If you’ve been injured in a parking lot accident, this guide will help you know the steps to take and how to maximize your chances of getting paid for your damages.

Introduction: The Challenge of Parking Lot Accidents

Parking lot accidents may seem minor at first, especially when they occur in busy commercial centers like Wiregrass, International Plaza, and Brandon Town Center in Florida. However, the complexities of proving fault in these situations can make them just as challenging as accidents that occur on public roads. These types of accidents can range from minor fender-benders to more serious collisions, often involving pedestrians or drivers who might not see one another until it’s too late.

Because parking lots are private property, liability and fault determination in these types of accidents may differ from other accidents that happen on public roads. Understanding the various rules, the rights of pedestrians, and the responsibilities of drivers is key to navigating the aftermath of a parking lot accident.

Common Types of Parking Lot Accidents at Wiregrass, International Plaza, and Brandon Town Center

Florida’s bustling commercial centers, such as Wiregrass, International Plaza, and Brandon Town Center, are home to heavy foot traffic and a constant stream of vehicles. As a result, parking lot accidents in these areas are unfortunately common. Let’s explore some of the most typical types of accidents that happen in these lots:

Michael Serrano

Founding Attorney

Candace “Cea” Hartley

Attorney

Molli Gard, ESQ.

Attorney

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of accidents in parking lots. They occur when a driver backs out of a parking space and doesn’t see a vehicle approaching in the lane, resulting in a collision. In these cases, the driver who is backing out is often at fault because they are expected to yield to vehicles already in motion.

Side-Impact Collisions

These accidents happen when a vehicle traveling down an aisle collides with a vehicle pulling out of a parking spot. Side-impact crashes can result in serious damage, especially when the two vehicles are moving at higher speeds. Drivers should always check both sides when backing out, while drivers in the lanes should stay alert for vehicles pulling in and out of spaces.

Pedestrian Accidents

Parking lots are high-risk areas for pedestrian accidents, particularly in places like Wiregrass or Brandon Town Center, where there’s a constant flow of foot traffic. Pedestrians may be crossing lanes or walking between parked cars, and drivers can fail to see them until it’s too late. Florida law mandates that drivers yield to pedestrians in parking lots, so if a pedestrian is injured, the driver may be found at fault.

Accidents Involving Stopped Vehicles

Sometimes, an accident occurs when one vehicle is stationary in a parking space while another car is driving through the lot. For example, a vehicle may be rear-ended or side-swiped while parked if the other driver is distracted, speeding, or misjudges the space. While this type of accident is less common, it still happens when vehicles are parked in tight spots.

Mike Serrano’s law office was everything I needed after a very traumatic accident. He was always super up front and honest with me. I never got the feeling he was trying to sell me on something or to do something that I wasn’t comfortable with. He listened to my concerns and when it tough moments came that I needed to stand my ground. He backed me and made me feel 100% secure. He got me exactly what I needed in a settlement and I would never consider using anyone else. His office staff is also phenomenal.”

- Mary

Mike Serrano was a great attorney for my case!! He was very flexible with phone calls/ Zoom meetings. His staff are always friendly, whether it be on the phone or emails. They keep you updated during your entire case! They don’t leave you silent for months. if you call, they always call back with updates! Highly recommend!"

- Kylie Collier Border

I’ve never had to deal with a lawyer before but Mike has set the bar HIGH. He was always available to communicate my concerns and explain each step of the way. I know no other lawyer would have been able to achieve the same results because he jumped on an opportunity that was a little out of the ordinary and it paid off. He really fought for my case and over delivered. I really hope I never have another accident but if I do I’m running to Mike for help."

- Sandy Carter

Who Is at Fault in a Parking Lot Accident? Understanding Comparative Negligence

In Florida, the concept of comparative negligence plays a crucial role in determining fault in parking lot accidents. Comparative negligence means that if both parties are partially at fault, they may share the blame for the accident, and their compensation will be reduced based on their percentage of responsibility.

Right of Way and Yielding to Pedestrians

In most situations, vehicles traveling through the aisles of a parking lot have the right of way over vehicles pulling out of parking spaces. This means if a collision happens because a driver is backing out and fails to yield to a vehicle traveling through the aisle, the driver who was backing out is often at fault.

Pedestrians, however, have clear rights in Florida. Drivers must always yield to pedestrians who are crossing parking lot aisles or walking along designated walkways. If a driver hits a pedestrian, they are usually considered at fault unless the pedestrian was jaywalking or violating other traffic rules.

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Speeding and Distracted Driving

Speeding is another common factor in parking lot accidents. Even though parking lots have posted speed limits, many drivers still exceed them. In addition, distracted driving—such as texting or using a phone—can be a major factor in parking lot accidents. Florida law requires that drivers be attentive at all times, even when maneuvering through parking lots.

Signs and Markings

Another key element in proving fault in parking lot accidents is the presence of signs, arrows, or other markings that direct the flow of traffic. Drivers are expected to obey these markings. For example, if a driver ignores a stop sign or directional arrow and causes an accident, they may be held fully or partially responsible for the crash.

What to Do After a Parking Lot Accident: Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re involved in a parking lot accident at Wiregrass, International Plaza, or Brandon Town Center, it’s important to follow a series of steps to protect yourself and your claim for compensation.

Case Results

Car Accident

This client was injured in an auto accident with a driver who improperly merged into her lane. Her vehicle was totaled. She sustained an aggravation of her pre-existing disc herniations in her neck and new disc herniations in her lower back. We obtained the full limits of both the at-fault driver’s bodily injury coverage and our client’s underinsured motorist coverage, which were significant. The settlement was achieved without a law suit and within four months after the client finished treating.

Rear End Collision

This particular client was injured in an accident in late 2015 when she was rear-ended. She sustained an aggravation of pre-existing disc herniations in her neck and a new disc herniation which ultimately required a surgical fusion. By the time of trial, her medical bills exceeded $180,000.00. The Defendants’ offer pre-suit was $20,000.00. We were able to obtain a jury verdict of $441,000.00, plus attorneys’ fees.

Car Accident

A client was injured in a rear-end collision where he sustained an aggravation of a pre-existing disc bulge that developed into a herniation in his lower back. We obtained a jury verdict which was over 6 times what had been offered prior to trial.

Car Accident

In this case, our client injured her shoulder after being struck by a vehicle while she was performing volunteer services. The driver was traveling at such a high rate of speed entering a parking lot that he clipped another vehicle, hit a parking barrier and was launched into a tree. After the client attempted to negotiate with the insurance company prior to hiring us, we were able to obtain an amount that was over double the prior offer.

Intentional Torts

Our client was injured from an assault by a patron of a party while working security. His shoulder required multiple surgeries. He hired our office to pursue a claim to recoup his medical bills, which exceeded $130,000.00. After his assailant offered him $10,000.00 to resolve his case, we took the case to a jury to decide. The jury awarded our client all of his medical bills and tripled his award for pain and suffering.

Car Accident

This client came to us about a car wreck that occurred in 2014 where she sustained injuries. She approached our firm just one week before the statute of limitations was set to expire after being turned away by several other law firms. We filed a lawsuit and were able to obtain the limits of the at-fault driver’s bodily injury coverage and an additional settlement from the client’s insurance carrier.

Truck Crash

This couple was injured in an automobile accident after they were rear-ended in a seven-car pileup caused by a semi-trailer. Of the 15 people who made claims on the same insurance policy, our clients each received the second and third highest offers, which covered all of their past and future medical bills and their attorney’s fees.

Truck Crash

In this case, our client was injured from a rear-end collision with an eighteen-wheeler. Her original lawyer procured a settlement offer of $7,000.00 to settle her case. Because the offer did not approach the amount of bills she incurred from accident related treatment, she came to our firm for a consultation. She decided to hire us. We promptly filed suit and obtained a settlement for her.

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Step 1: Ensure Safety and Call for Help

First, make sure everyone involved in the accident is safe. Check for injuries and, if necessary, call 911 for medical assistance or law enforcement. Even minor accidents should be reported to law enforcement, especially if there are injuries or if you are unsure about who is at fault.

Step 2: Document the Scene

Take detailed photos of the accident scene, including:

• The position of the vehicles involved. 
• Damage to the vehicles. 
• Any visible injuries to yourself, passengers, or pedestrians. 
• Relevant signs or markings that may show who had the right of way. 

You should also write down notes about the accident while the details are still fresh in your memory.

Step 3: Exchange Information

Make sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved. Also, gather contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident. Having witnesses can help clarify the details of the accident and provide support for your version of events.

Step 4: File a Police Report

While not all accidents require a police report, it’s generally a good idea to have one filed, especially if there are injuries or property damage. A police report can serve as an important piece of evidence in proving fault.

Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all the relevant information, including the police report, witness statements, and photos of the scene.

Step 6: Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer

If you’re injured or if there’s a dispute about who is at fault, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can help protect your rights, ensure you receive fair compensation, and handle any legal proceedings that may arise.

How to Get Paid After a Parking Lot Accident: Seeking Compensation

If you’ve been injured in a parking lot accident at Wiregrass, International Plaza, or Brandon Town Center, getting the compensation you deserve requires taking a few key steps:

Insurance Claims

After determining fault, your next step is to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If they are uninsured or underinsured, you can file a claim through your own insurance company.

Property Damage Claims

In addition to medical bills, you can file a property damage claim for any damage to your vehicle. If the other driver was at fault, their insurance should cover these expenses, but if they are found to be partially at fault, your insurance may step in to cover a portion of the damage.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

In Florida, drivers are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which covers medical expenses for injuries sustained in an accident, regardless of fault. If the other driver is at fault, you can still use your PIP coverage to pay for medical bills while your insurance works on recouping the costs from the at-fault party’s insurer.

Negotiation and Settlements

Once you file your claim, the insurance company may offer you a settlement. It’s important to carefully review the offer, as insurance companies often try to settle for less than the full value of your claim. If you feel the offer is insufficient, consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement.

Filing a Lawsuit

If negotiations fail, or if liability is unclear, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages. This is where having a skilled lawyer by your side can make all the difference. Your lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and present your case in court.

Why Legal Representation Matters After a Parking Lot Accident

Navigating the aftermath of a parking lot accident in Florida can be complicated, especially if there are disputes over liability or injuries involved. Having a personal injury lawyer can:

• Help determine the full extent of damages and ensure that you are compensated for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 
• Negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your settlement offer. 
• Represent you in court if a lawsuit becomes necessary. 

At Serrano Law, we are committed to helping individuals in Hillsborough County and surrounding areas like Wiregrass, International Plaza, and Brandon Town Center. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the legal process, from proving fault to ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been involved in a parking lot accident at Wiregrass, International Plaza, or Brandon Town Center, contact Serrano Law for a free consultation. Our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and get the compensation you deserve.

Visit Serrano Law or call (813) 555-1234 to speak with a lawyer today.

To learn more about this subject click here: Friday Night Football Parking Lot Injuries When Schools and Stadiums Are Responsible in Hillsborough County