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Evidence Guide
Parking Lot Accident Evidence | Attorney Raffi Naljian
Parking lot accidents present unique challenges because they often occur on private property without traffic signals or clear right-of-way rules. Attorney Raffi Naljian helps parking lot accident victims understand what evidence can establish fault. Acting quickly to document the scene and preserve surveillance footage is crucial.
Hit in a parking lot?
Raffi Naljian
California Personal Injury, Litigation & Criminal Defense Attorney
Raffi Garabed Naljian is an active California attorney listed under State Bar #238919. The State Bar profile lists personal injury, litigation, criminal law, and business law among his self-reported practice areas, and Naljian Law Offices describes a Glendale practice handling criminal defense and civil litigation, including personal injury matters.
View Full ProfileIs This the Right Attorney for Your Case?
Parking lot accidents may involve different rules than street accidents, and fault can be disputed. Raffi Naljian handles parking lot collision claims and understands how to investigate these accidents and identify available evidence. Also searched as: Rafi Nanaljian, Raffi Nalian, Rafi Naljian.
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What to Do Next
- 1Exchange information with the other driver
- 2Document the accident location within the lot
- 3Take photos of vehicle positions and damage
- 4Look for surveillance cameras nearby
- 5Report the accident to lot security or management
- 6Get contact info for any witnesses
- 7Note parking lot conditions and signage
- 8Request surveillance footage preservation immediately
Evidence Checklist
- Photos of both vehicles and damage
- Photos showing where the accident occurred
- Parking lot layout and traffic flow
- Surveillance camera locations
- Contact info for store or lot management
- Witness statements
- Police report if officers responded
- Your dashcam footage if available
- Photos of any signage or lane markings
- Medical records if injured
Surveillance footage must be requested quickly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving without getting driver information
- Not requesting surveillance footage immediately
- Assuming parking lot accidents are 50/50 fault
- Not documenting the specific location
- Waiting too long—footage is often overwritten
- Assuming no claim because it was a parking lot
- Not noting who was moving vs. stationary
How the Process Typically Works
1
Immediate Documentation
Photo positions, exchange info, note cameras
2
Footage Request
Request surveillance preservation within 24-48 hours
3
Investigation
Analyze fault based on movements and positions
4
Claim Filing
Present claim with supporting evidence
5
Resolution
Negotiate or litigate based on evidence
Damages You May Be Able to Recover
- •Vehicle repair costs
- •Medical expenses if injured
- •Lost wages
- •Rental car during repairs
- •Pain and suffering if injured
- •Diminished vehicle value
Frequently Asked Questions
Do police respond to parking lot accidents?
Police may not respond to accidents on private property unless there are injuries. However, you should still call to request a report if possible.
How is fault determined in parking lots?
Fault depends on who had the right of way, who was moving vs. parked, backing up vs. driving forward, and adherence to any posted signs or markings.
Can I get surveillance footage from the store?
Request footage immediately—many stores overwrite footage within days. An attorney can send a formal preservation letter if needed.
What if the other driver left the scene?
This is a hit-and-run even in a parking lot. Report to police, check for witnesses and cameras, and your uninsured motorist coverage may apply.
Is backing out of a space always at fault?
Not necessarily, though the backing driver often bears more responsibility. Circumstances like speed, attention, and other driver's actions all factor into fault.
Free intake review for parking lot accidents.
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Important Disclosures
Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this website or submitting a contact form. Results vary based on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.