Handling Car Accidents on Private Property in Fort Pierce
The standard procedures for handling a car accident on a public street includes taking photos, exchanging information with the other driver, and getting the police involved for an investigation and to complete an accident report. But what happens when the car accident takes place on private property, such as a store parking lot? Many drivers are surprised to find out that a car accident on private property comes with some unique differences. This article will provide tips and information on how to handle car accidents on private property in Fort Pierce.
Parking Lot Accident Statistics
1 in 5 accidents take place in parking lots. With the 2019 holiday season on the horizon, the National Safety Council reports that parking lots will become more dangerous. As a result, car accidents will become more frequent. Each year, 51 parking lot deaths occur when drivers are backing up.
Some of the reasons for parking lot accidents include the following:
- Talking on the phone or texting
- Relying on GPS systems
- Not being aware of surroundings when backing up
How to Navigate Car Accidents on Private Property
Although car accidents on private property like parking lots occur at slow speeds, they can still create significant damages. Car accidents that occur on private property do not follow the same rules as car accidents occurring on public roadways.
For example, Fort Pierce drivers must be aware that the police may not be helpful for car accidents on private property. They usually won’t respond to the scene nor will they investigate and write an accident report. Most of the laws don’t apply when it comes to car accidents occurring on private property.
The information above should not discourage you in protecting and enforcing your rights. Here’s some advice for navigating car accidents on private property:
- Do Not Move Your Car
During the car accident, it’s important to remember that you’re on private property. As soon as the collision occurs, do not move your car to avoid from blocking lanes or keep people from going around you. Just keep your car in its current position while you get out of the car to review the damages.
The other driver should not move their car as well. According to a portion of Florida Statute 316.027(2)(a), the driver involved in a crash on private property resulting in injury to a person other than bodily injury must immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the crash.
- Always Take Photos
Be sure to take plenty of photos or videos to document the scene. This is why drivers should keep their cars in the final location upon impact. The photos need to be an accurate representation of the accident, the damages caused and the scene in general.
- Exchange Information with the Driver and File an Insurance Claim
Since the police has no involvement, it’s up to you to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. If the name of the driver doesn’t link up with the name of the insured on the insurance card, take note of the name of the owner of the vehicle as well. If not, you will have problems later on when it’s time to file your insurance claim.
Safeguard your information by protecting private information such as your social security number or banking information. No one would need this information to pursue a claim.
When You’re Dealing with a Car Accident on Private Property, Contact Sholtes Law, PLLC
If you have injuries and are handling a car accident on private property on your own, contact Sholtes Law, PLLC. Andrew Sholtes is a skilled Fort Pierce car accident lawyer serving St. Lucie & Martin County who will work on your claim from day one, address your concerns and work in your best interest. Call 855-534-2509 for a free consultation.
Resource:
nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/distracted-driving/parking-lot-safety
