Shopping mall parking lots are often bustling with drivers and pedestrians alike. Unfortunately, they can become a site for accidents, such as collisions and slip-and-falls. Given the frequency of these accidents, victims often find themselves asking: can a shopping mall be held liable for parking lot crashes? The answer is yes.
Under Nevada law, shopping malls have the duty to maintain safety on their premises, including the parking lots. This responsibility includes proper maintenance, providing adequate lighting, and ensuring sufficient security. About 20% of all car accidents occur in parking lots, and while many are fender benders, some can cause serious injuries or even death.
If you are injured in a parking lot, you can potentially hold the property owner liable for your injuries. If negligence had a role to play in your case, it can be complex to prove. This is where the expertise of a premises liability attorney from the Ace Law Group can help. They can help you obtain the rightful compensation.
Common causes of parking lot accidents at shopping malls
Some common reasons for parking lot accidents at shopping malls in Las Vegas include the following:
- Distracted driving.
Distracted driving is one of the most common reasons for parking lot accidents. Drivers are often distracted when looking for available parking spaces, checking their surroundings for pedestrians, or being busy with other tasks inside the vehicle (such as checking their phones). This divided attention can result in accidents.
- Poor lighting or signage.
Insufficient lighting and unclear signage increase dangers in mall parking lots. Poorly lit areas can create confusion and make it difficult for drivers and pedestrians to see each other clearly. The risk especially increases during the night or adverse weather conditions, such as rain. Moreover, unclear signs about speeding, parking, and pedestrian crossing can lead to errors.
- Lack of security.
Not having proper security measures or surveillance can increase accidents. Shopping malls attract large crowds, and without adequate security, it is quite easy for hazards to go unnoticed. It is important to hire an appropriate number of security guards and install CCTV cameras. Cameras allow you to gather evidence in the event of an accident.
- Improper maintenance.
Shopping malls experience heavy traffic daily, and so do their parking lots. Without proper maintenance, problems such as potholes, fading lines, and poorly marked parking spaces can cause accidents. While one may think a small pothole would not cause harm, it might become the reason they face a lawsuit from an old man who broke his back from tripping.
When can a shopping mall be liable for your parking lot crash injuries?
Shopping malls can be held liable for your parking lot injuries if they were negligent in maintaining safety on their premises. If a mall overlooks obvious hazards, such as wet floors, broken railings, or potholes in parking lots, they may be responsible for your injuries.
Another scenario where a shopping mall might be liable is if one of its employees was negligent. Shopping malls often employ a large staff, and if an employee’s negligence leads to an accident, the mall might be held responsible.
For example, the employees are responsible for cleaning up spills immediately as soon as they happen. To do this, they must monitor the areas constantly. If the staff fails to clear up a spill and you injure your back in a slip-and-fall accident, the mall may be liable.
You can also file a third-party liability claim if your injury occurs as a result of a third-party service provider, such as a valet service. However, the mall may still be responsible for not being more careful about their contracted services.
Recover your damages today!
If you were injured at a shopping mall parking lot, you may be confused about who to hold responsible for your injuries. Hire an attorney in Las Vegas today to know your options!
