New York Parking Lot Accident Lawyer
Parking Lot Accidents in New York City
Parking lot and parking garage accidents are more common than most people realize. The National Safety Council reports that more than 60,000 people are injured and 500 are killed each year in parking lot crashes. Nearly 20% of all car accidents happen in parking lots.
In a crowded city like New York, parking lots and garages are often filled with cars, pedestrians, cyclists, and delivery vehicles. Even low-speed crashes can cause serious injuries, wrongful death, or costly property damage.
If you or a loved one were hurt in a New York parking lot accident, you may be entitled to compensation. An experienced NYC parking lot accident attorney at Greenstein & Pittari, LLP can help protect your rights.
Who Has the Right of Way in New York Parking Lots?
While most parking lots are private property, New York traffic laws still apply:
- Main lanes vs. feeder lanes: Drivers in main lanes have the right of way.
- Backing out of spaces: Vehicles must yield to moving traffic and pedestrians.
- Traffic signs and arrows: Stop and yield signs are enforceable under New York law.
- Competing for spaces: A driver making a left into a spot is usually at fault.
- Pedestrians: Always have the right of way in New York parking lots and garages.
Common Causes of Parking Lot Accidents in NYC
Driver Negligence
- Distracted driving (texting, GPS use)
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Unsafe reversing or blind backing
- Speeding or reckless driving in tight aisles
- Driving under the influence
- Ignoring stop or yield signs
Property Owner Negligence
Under New York premises liability law, property owners and businesses may be responsible for unsafe conditions:
- Snow and ice hazards
- Poor lighting or visibility issues
- Potholes or uneven pavement
- Faded or missing traffic markings
- Lack of pedestrian walkways or crosswalks
- Inadequate security measures
Types of New York Parking Lot Collisions
- Rear-end collisions
- T-bone or side-impact crashes
- Head-on collisions from wrong-way driving
- Sideswipes in narrow aisles
- Cars backing out simultaneously
- Pedestrian or cyclist accidents
Injuries From Parking Lot and Garage Accidents
Even at low speeds, these accidents can cause devastating injuries:
- Fractures and broken bones
- Neck and back injuries, including whiplash
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Severe lacerations, burns, or scarring
- Wrongful death
Evidence in New York Parking Lot Accidents
- Surveillance footage
- Eyewitness statements
- Police or incident reports
- Photos of the lot, damage, and signage
- Medical records
- Vehicle “black box” data
Comparative Negligence Rule (CPLR §1411): In New York, you can still recover damages even if you were mostly at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Compensation Available for New York Parking Lot Accident Victims
Victims may recover economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and reduced quality of life
- Disability, disfigurement, or loss of consortium
New York Statute of Limitations
- Personal injury claims: 3 years (CPLR §214)
- Wrongful death claims: 2 years from the date of death
- Municipal liability: File a Notice of Claim within 90 days if a city vehicle or public lot was involved
What To Do After a Parking Lot Accident in NYC
- Call 911 if anyone is injured or if it’s a hit-and-run.
- Move vehicles to safety and turn on hazards.
- Seek medical attention right away.
- Document the scene (photos, signage, weather, injuries).
- Collect witness statements.
- Notify your insurance company.
- Contact an experienced New York parking lot accident lawyer before giving recorded statements.
Why Hire a New York Parking Lot Accident Attorney?
Insurance companies often try to blame both drivers 50/50 or deny property owner liability. For pedestrians and cyclists, the risks are even higher.
A skilled NYC parking lot accident lawyer can:
- Investigate thoroughly and gather key evidence
- Preserve surveillance video and witness testimony
- Negotiate with insurers
- Identify all responsible parties (drivers, property owners, businesses)
- Pursue full compensation under New York law
Greenstein & Pittari, LLP – Parking Lot Accident Attorneys in New York
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we fight for accident victims throughout New York City, Long Island, and across New York State.
Seven convenient offices: Harlem, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County
No Fee Unless We Win – Our Fee Guarantee
Top-rated NYC injury lawyers (Best Lawyers & Super Lawyers)
Bilingual legal services available
Hundreds of positive client reviews
Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) today for a free consultation with a New York parking lot accident attorney.
Don’t be a victim twice – let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.