Parking lots can help increase customer foot traffic for businesses and provide convenience for those driving to work or visiting an establishment. However, it’s important to note that those who own, lease, or control the property have a responsibility to maintain it and ensure the safety of any visitors. Failing to do so can result in injuries for which they may be liable.
Parking lots and premises liability
Slippery flooring, faulty stair rails, insufficient lighting, and other instances of poor maintenance and security can all lead to injuries in parking lots.
In Massachusetts, commercial and residential property owners have an obligation to provide reasonable care for their visitors and invitees. Customers are examples of invitees since the property owner expects and invites them, whether explicitly or implicitly, to enter the property for their benefit.
In addition, the lack of lighting and seclusion of some parking lots make them particularly appealing to criminals. When property owners don’t establish adequate security measures, they could be found negligent for enabling criminal activity on their premises.
To keep visitors and invitees safe, property owners must resolve any known safety risks and hazards on their premises. Otherwise, visitors could get into an accident and potentially file a lawsuit.
Recovering damages
Individuals who suffered injuries in a parking lot, whether by slip-and-falls or criminal activity, may sue the parking lot’s owner. Pursuing legal action could allow them to recover compensation for any medical expenses, lost wages and other damages they incurred.
However, given the unique characteristics of every incident, compensation can vary widely from case to case. If parking lot injury victims want to claim damages, they may want to consult a premises liability attorney first. An attorney can help evaluate their case and determine whether filing a lawsuit is reasonable.
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