Though vehicles usually move slowly through them, parking lots are dangerous places for pedestrians, cyclists, and even drivers. The Shelly Leeke Law Firm is committed to helping Columbia residents injured in parking lot accidents recover compensation for their losses.
If someone else’s irresponsible behavior has left you in physical, emotional, and financial distress, call Shelly Leeke and speak with a Columbia parking lot accident attorney today. Our Columbia personal injury lawyers are ready to help you get your life back on track, and help you get the compensation you deserve.
How Columbia Parking Lot Accidents Happen
While open roads may experience higher-speed traffic, parking lots have drivers and pedestrians moving in confined spaces that often require tricky maneuvering. Parking lots may also be poorly lit, have uneven or slippery surfaces, or be populated by view-blocking delivery trucks.
The National Safety Council (NSC) reports 66% of parking-lot drivers to engage in distracted-driving behaviors such as texting, sending emails, watching videos, programming navigation systems, or using social media. Because of these conditions and negligent driving practices, the NSC says parking lots are the scene of tens of thousands of accidents per year.
Injuries You Can Sustain in a Parking Lot Accident
A serious parking lot injury can affect your ability to work, move through your typical daily routine, engage in social engagements, or interact with others as you did prior to the accident.
If you are hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian or cyclist, you may experience crushed bones, head or neck damage, lacerations, or even a serious brain injury. Whether you are in a car or simply walking by a delivery truck, any impact from such a large, heavy vehicle can cause damage.
When parking lot surfaces are not kept free of debris, ice, potholes, or other damage, pedestrians may slip or fall, which can lead to broken bones or head trauma. Falls are especially dangerous for seniors, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
You Need and Deserve a Settlement
Injuries have ripple effects, taking a toll not just on your body but on your finances and your emotional well-being. An experienced Columbia parking lot accident attorney will review your case with great care, taking all of your losses into account. While no two accidents or settlements are completely alike, you can expect your lawyer to pursue:
- Reimbursements for any medical treatments and other interventions you have paid for as well as your expected care needs
- Income recovery for wages lost because of missed days at work and lost potential income if you cannot return to work or can only return in a more limited capacity
- Remuneration for property damaged or wrecked in the accident
- Compensation for your pain and emotional suffering
- Financial acknowledgment for your diminished quality of life
When someone else’s negligence causes those losses, you need compensation for future financial stability and deserve compensation as a means of justice.
South Carolina’s Fault Laws Can Affect Your Settlement Amount
Under South Carolina’s fault laws, if you are the victim in an accident, the party who caused the accident owes you compensation. However, you can only collect if you are 50% or less responsible for the accident.
Suppose you meet this requirement but still hold some level of fault. In that case, your settlement amount will be reduced in proportion to your level of fault, according to South Carolina’s modified comparative fault system. This system has the potential to complicate settlement negotiations and makes it especially important that you have a skilled parking lot accident attorney in Columbia handling these discussions on your behalf.
The insurance companies representing the at-fault party will do their best to inflate your, or someone else’s, level of fault to protect themselves from making a payout. Regrettably, these companies often resort to unethical tactics to get the job done. To avoid putting your settlement at risk, do not speak to any insurance adjustors or others representing the at-fault party, but have your lawyer speak for you.
Identifying the At-Fault Party Can Be Complicated in Parking Lot Accidents
Determining fault in a parking lot accident is not always straightforward. However, to collect a settlement, you must be sure to file against the appropriate party and then prove that party’s negligence. If you file against a party and cannot prove they caused the accident and your injuries, you will be left without a settlement.
Shelly Leeke Law Firm has years of experience investigating accident cases and a history of successful case results. Your Columbia parking lot accident attorney will know how to investigate every aspect of your accident to determine the negligent party and collect thorough evidence to prove that party’s negligence.
A Columbia Parking Lot Accident Lawyer Will Manage Your Case from Start to Finish
Navigating a complex legal system and managing an injury case successfully requires legal skill and knowledge. When a settlement determines your financial future, you need a superior-quality parking lot accident lawyer in Columbia representing you from beginning to end.
Filing Your Claim
When you partner with a lawyer promptly after your accident, you give your attorney ample time to investigate your accident thoroughly and file your claim with South Carolina’s statute of limitations.
Gathering Evidence
Collecting evidence requires strategy and time. Your Columbia parking lot accident lawyer will track down witnesses, speak to experts, and request police reports. They will work to obtain any available camera footage and consult with your doctors and other professionals to compile evidence supporting your claim.
Communicating with All Involved Parties
Your attorney will handle all communication with the at-fault party’s insurance and legal representatives and keep you apprised of all developments. Shelly Leeke Law Firm is dedicated to giving every client the individual attention they deserve.
Representing You at Trial
Most often, injury cases settle out of court. Your attorney will negotiate a fair settlement with the at-fault party’s representatives. Sometimes, the other side refuses to play fair or purposely slows down the process as you suffer and wait. In these cases, your attorney will present you with your options and, if you choose to take your case to court, will represent you at all proceedings.
Start Working Towards a Settlement Today
A Columbia parking lot accident attorney from Shelly Leeke is ready to discuss your case. Contact us at any time, any day of the week. Your case consultation comes at no cost to you, and you will not pay any fees until you receive a settlement.
We hope to hear from you to start working toward a settlement today.
