When a driver backs into a pedestrian in a parking lot or driveway, the driver is usually liable, but they may not be the only responsible party. Glendale’s busy shopping centers, medical plazas, and residential driveways create constant conflict between cars and people on foot. These low-speed crashes can still cause broken bones, head injuries, and back trauma, especially for children and older adults. At Pilavjian Law, we help injured pedestrians identify every liable party and pursue full compensation.
Why Are Parking Lot Pedestrian Accidents So Common?
Parking lots combine distracted drivers, limited visibility, and people walking in unpredictable paths. Common causes include:
- Drivers backing out without checking mirrors or backup cameras
- Drivers looking for open spaces instead of watching for people
- Phone use while pulling in or out of spaces
- Speeding through lanes or cutting across empty rows
- Large SUVs and trucks with significant rear blind spots
- Poor lighting, faded markings, or confusing lot layouts
Driveway accidents often involve drivers backing onto sidewalks without stopping, striking pedestrians who have the right of way.
Is the Driver Always at Fault for Backing Into a Pedestrian?
In most cases, yes. California Vehicle Code Section 22106 prohibits drivers from backing up unless they can do so with reasonable safety. A driver who reverses into someone typically failed to meet that duty. However, insurers may try to argue that the pedestrian was distracted, walking behind a car with reverse lights on, or outside a marked walkway. Under California’s comparative fault rules, you can still recover damages even if you share some responsibility, though your award may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Can the Property Owner Also Be Liable?
Sometimes. Owners and managers of shopping centers, office complexes, and apartment buildings have a duty to keep their lots reasonably safe. A property owner may share liability when an accident involves:
- Broken or inadequate lighting
- Missing crosswalks, stop signs, or speed bumps
- Overgrown landscaping that blocks sightlines
- Dangerous traffic flow design that was never corrected despite prior incidents
These claims fall under premises accidents law and can add important insurance coverage to your case. If the driver was working at the time, such as a delivery or rideshare driver, their employer or the company’s policy may also apply.
What Evidence Helps Prove a Parking Lot Accident Claim?
Evidence in parking lot cases disappears quickly, so acting fast matters. Useful evidence includes:
- Surveillance footage from nearby businesses, which is often overwritten within days
- Photos of the scene, vehicle position, lighting, and signage
- Witness names and contact information
- Backup camera or dashcam footage from the vehicle
- Medical records documenting your injuries
Because many parking lots are private property, police may not write a full report. That makes independent investigation even more important. Our team moves quickly to preserve video and document conditions before they change.
What Compensation Can Injured Pedestrians Recover?
Pedestrians hurt in Glendale parking lot or driveway accidents may recover medical bills, future treatment costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. More serious injuries can support larger claims for long-term care and reduced earning capacity. Learn more about how we handle these cases on our pedestrian accidents page.
Speak With a Glendale Pedestrian Accident Attorney
A “minor” parking lot accident can lead to major medical bills and lasting pain. Pilavjian Law investigates every source of liability, preserves critical evidence, and fights insurers who try to shift blame onto pedestrians. We charge no fee unless we win. Call (818) 380-3021 today or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation.