When it comes to determining fault in parking lot accidents in Jacksonville, Florida, the situation isn’t as simple as declaring all parking lots “no-fault” zones. Many drivers assume that parking lot accidents automatically fall under no-fault rules, but this misconception can lead to confusion when accidents occur.
## Understanding Parking Lot Accidents in Jacksonville
In Jacksonville, as in the rest of Florida, parking lot accidents are treated similarly to roadway accidents. Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system for auto accidents in general, but this doesn’t mean no one is at fault in an accident. Rather, it means that regardless of who caused the accident, each driver’s own insurance pays for their medical expenses up to the limits of their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
However, determining liability for vehicle damage is a different matter. The driver who caused the accident is generally responsible for the property damage they cause to another vehicle.
## Common Types of Parking Lot Accidents
Several types of accidents frequently occur in Jacksonville parking lots:
Backing-up collisions occur when two vehicles back out of parking spaces simultaneously and hit each other. In these cases, both drivers typically share some degree of fault.
T-bone accidents happen when one car pulls out of a parking space and collides with a car driving down the lane. Usually, the driver pulling out of the space bears most responsibility.
Rear-end collisions take place when one vehicle hits another from behind, often while waiting for a parking space. The rear driver is usually considered at fault.
Door dings result from opening a car door into an adjacent parked vehicle. The person opening the door is typically liable for any damage.
## How Fault is Determined in Parking Lot Accidents
In Jacksonville parking lots, fault is generally determined by applying basic traffic rules and right-of-way principles:
Cars in throughways (main lanes) usually have the right of way over cars pulling out of spaces.
All drivers must exercise reasonable care and follow posted signs like stop signs or one-way indicators.
Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and parking lot walkways.
Insurance adjusters investigate factors like the point of impact, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage to determine fault.
## What to Do After a Parking Lot Accident
If you’re involved in a parking lot accident in Jacksonville, take these steps:
Check for injuries and call emergency services if needed.
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
Document the scene with photos of both vehicles, the surrounding area, and any relevant signage.
Look for witnesses and get their contact information.
Report the accident to your insurance company, regardless of fault.
File a police report if there are injuries or significant damage.
## Recent Changes to Florida’s Insurance Laws
It’s worth noting that Florida’s auto insurance laws changed somewhat in 2023, but the state still maintains its no-fault system for medical expenses. These changes don’t fundamentally alter how parking lot accidents are handled in terms of determining responsibility for vehicle damage.
At Bold City Seal & Asphalt Services, we understand the importance of well-maintained parking lots in preventing accidents. We recently completed asphalt repairs at several commercial properties near the Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve, helping businesses provide safer parking environments for their customers. For parking lot maintenance, repair, or resurfacing that can help reduce accident risks, call us at (904) 907-9394.