Who Has the Right of Way in a Parking Lot?

Traffic flow and lane design define who has the right of way in a parking lot. Drivers in the primary traffic lanes or aisles often have a right of way, though it is situational. Furthermore, if someone is pulling out of a parking lot, they must yield the right of way to pedestrians and vehicles driving by. Right-of-way rules also depend on the circumstances and the parking lot size. Drivers should understand right-of-way rules to prevent accidents in parking lots.

Drivers are liable for accidents if they injure others, and parking lot collisions can cause surprisingly serious injuries. Consult a trusted car accident attorney in New Mexico if you’ve been injured in a parking lot crash caused by someone else.

What Are the Parking Lot Rules in New Mexico?

Here are some general parking lot rules applicable in New Mexico:

• Use only one spot
• Avoid tailgating other drivers
• Make sure your parked car is visible
• You should not block other vehicles
• Park in a suitable spot. Avoid parking in designated places, including for a disabled driver, electric vehicle, or staff.
• Check your rear mirrors or windows before pulling out of a parking spot
• Use your turn signals when pulling into a parking spot
• Watch out for pedestrians
• Take note of parking restrictions
• Do not cut off other drivers or be aggressive

Who Has the Right of Way in a Parking Lot?

Here are specific situations to consider when pulling into and out of parking lots:

• Exiting Parking Lots: When a driver pulls out of the parking lot, they should wait for sufficient clearance to begin moving. Drivers pulling out should yield to other drivers passing through the lane. Some parking lots have merging lanes that allow space for the yielding driver.
• Driving on a Parking Lane: Vehicles driving through a parking lot lane or aisle have a right of way over parked vehicles. Drivers who want to pull out of parking lanes should wait until the driving lane becomes clear. Similarly, drivers in the aisle should watch out for vehicles pulling out or otherwise entering.
• Entering the Lane: In most cases, drivers in the primary lane have a right of way. Drivers who want to make a turn out of the parking aisle or through the lane should yield to other drivers before completing the turn.
• Presence of Signals and Signs: In some instances, traffic signs specify who has the right of way in a parking lot. Drivers should obey stop or yield signs.

What to Do if You Are Involved in a Parking Lot Accident?

You should take a few steps after an accident to enhance your safety and protect your right to compensation. Knowing what to do after an accident can turn an overwhelming situation into a manageable one.

Here’s what to do after a parking lot accident:

• Move yourself or your vehicle to the side of the primary lane if it is safe
• Contact 911 if anyone is injured
• Notify the police about the accident
• Gather evidence
• Seek medical attention
• Notify your insurance provider
• Get in touch with a car accident attorney

Main Causes of Parking Lot Accidents

Here are the common causes of parking lot accidents:

• Reckless Reversing: A driver can collide with another driver with a right of way or a pedestrian if they fail to adequately check rear mirrors or blindspots before pulling out.
• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is the cause of many parking lot accidents. Any activity that takes away drivers’ attention is classified as distracted driving, including texting and driving, talking on the phone, or adjusting the car stereo. A distracted driver is at a high risk of knocking down a passenger or colliding with another vehicle.
• Distracted Pedestrians: Distracted pedestrians can walk into vehicles’ blind spots, increasing the risk of parking lot accidents. For instance, a teenager operating a phone can walk in the path of a car, leading to a collision.
• Speeding: Driving too fast in a parking lot increases the risk of accidents. Overspeeding increases the braking distance, making it difficult to react in time to stop a collision. Drive safely within 5 mph to 10 mph to avoid parking lot accidents.

Tips to Stay Safe in a Parking Lot

Parking lots are a source of unexpected danger for both drivers and passengers. Unlike many roads and highways, cars and people share the same space all day, every day. In addition to the risk of vehicle collisions, users are vulnerable to the risk of theft and physical violence.

As with most public areas, there are ways to protect yourself when visiting parking lots.

Parking Lot Safety Tips for Drivers

• Stay alert and focused anytime you’re behind the wheel. You risk crashing whether you’re driving at 7 mph in a parking lot or 70 mph on a freeway.
• Avoid distracted driving habits like texting and driving, speaking on the phone, or grooming yourself.
• Do not speed and use caution during inclement weather
• Do not cut across when finding parking to save time
• Use traffic signals in parking lots
• Use turn signals when pulling into parking spots
• Use caution when driving in reverse
• Yield to pedestrians
• Avoid tailgating and keep a safe distance from other vehicles
• Watch for children and cyclists

Parking Lot Safety Tips for Pedestrians

Here are safety tips to protect yourself when walking in a parking lot or garage:

• Park in well-lit areas
• Park close to your destination
• Do not walk while distracted while texting or watching videos
• Walk on main ways to navigate the parking lot instead of weaving in and out of vehicles
• Don’t walk behind a car that is pulling out
• Be alert and constantly on the lookout for moving vehicles
• Don’t assume drivers see you

Injured in a Parking Lot Accident? Get in Touch With an Experienced New Mexico Car Accident Attorney

Your quality of life might be severely compromised after sustaining an injury in a parking lot accident due to a negligent driver. You deserve compensation for all your physical and mental suffering related to your injury.

Parnall Law is a team of personal injury attorneys with decades of experience representing car accident victims and seeking the justice they deserve. Contact us online or at (505) 268-6500 for a free consultation.