Parking Lot Accidents in Phoenix — Who Is at Fault?

Parking lot accidents account for a significant percentage of all car accidents — and they’re surprisingly contentious when it comes to fault. Low speeds don’t mean low stakes, especially when the insurance companies start arguing.

Common Parking Lot Scenarios

Two cars backing out simultaneously. Both drivers share comparative fault, often split 50/50. Neither had the right of way.

Moving car hits a reversing car. The reversing driver is usually primarily at fault — the driver in the travel lane has the right of way.

Car hits a pedestrian. Pedestrians have the right of way in parking lots. Drivers must exercise extra caution because parking lots are full of pedestrians loading groceries, pushing carts, and walking between cars with limited visibility.

Car hits a parked car. The moving driver is at fault. If they leave without providing information, it’s a hit-and-run.

The “Low Speed” Myth

Insurance companies love to argue that parking lot accidents can’t cause serious injuries because of low speeds. This is false. A vehicle weighing 4,000 pounds moving at 10 mph delivers substantial force. Whiplash, back injuries, and soft tissue injuries are common in parking lot crashes.

Documentation Is Critical

Parking lot accidents often lack police reports because they occur on private property and officers may not respond. This makes your own documentation essential — photos of both vehicles, the parking lot layout, any surveillance cameras, and witness information. Follow the accident checklist.

If you’ve been injured in a parking lot accident, call the Law Badgers at (833) DTF-IGHT.