The definition of an accident is an unfortunate situation that happens unexpectedly and unintentionally. This means that it can happen anywhere, at any time. Even in the places you least expect. Most individuals do not think of parking lots as a place that can be dangerous. However, it is quite common for people to be injured in a parking lot when property owners fail to keep them safe. When parking lots, like any other pieces of property, are not properly maintained, serious accidents may occur.
Causes of Accidents
There are several ways a person could be injured while in a parking lot. Usually, accidents are a result of dangerous conditions that are present. This may include:
- Poor weather conditions (snow, ice, standing water, etc.)
- Potholes, uneven surfaces, cracked surfaces
- Loose debris
- Hazardous materials
After an individual is injured, they should seek medical attention immediately. After this, it is important to acknowledge the incident as a result of the factors above within a reasonable period of time. In order to bring a personal injury case to court, the injured party must determine who is responsible and collect evidence that proves so.
Liability
Liability refers to whoever is responsible for the injuries that have been sustained. In New Jersey, all property owners are responsible to maintain a safe property for all individuals to be on. If they fail to do so, the property owner may be held liable for any accidents that may happen to an individual who is walking in their parking lot.
Proving Negligence
In order to hold another party responsible for an injury you sustained on their property, an individual must prove that the property owner was negligent in caring for the property. This is called the “burden of proof.” The burden of proof requires the injured party to collect evidence against the property owner that proves negligence. In New Jersey, it must be proved that the owner knew about, or should have known about, the dangerous conditions that existed. This evidence may include medical documentation of your injury, security footage of the parking lot during the time of your injury, pictures of the damaged property, and any witnesses to the incident.
Contact our Firm
If you or someone you know has been injured as a result of poor parking lot conditions and seek legal representation, contact the Law Offices of Stathis & Leonardis, LLC. today.
Stathis & Leonardis, LLC is an experienced personal injury law firm in Middlesex County, New Jersey that is committed to helping clients who have been hurt because of the negligence of another party. If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident or were injured on another person’s property, contact our firm today.
