School parking lots can pose unexpected dangers. With high traffic volume and young and often distracted pedestrians, the risk of accidents increases. Mornings and afternoons are particularly hazardous as students, parents, and staff converge in the same space simultaneously, creating a chaotic environment that demands extra caution from drivers and pedestrians alike.

This mix of distracted pedestrians, young and inexperienced drivers, and congested traffic can lead to frequent crashes. In 2022, 104 people lost their lives in school-transportation-related crashes, 38% of whom were pedestrians.

Understanding what to do after a crash in a school parking lot can help you take the proper steps to protect your legal rights and well-being.

Common Causes of Crashes in School Parking Lots

School parking lots are particularly susceptible to accidents for several reasons, including:

  • High Traffic Density: During peak times, like morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up, a large number of vehicles enter and exit the lot at the same time. This creates congestion, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
  • Distracted Pedestrians: Many students and parents are focused on things other than their surroundings. Students may be on their phones, talking with friends, or rummaging through backpacks, all while walking in and out of traffic.
  • Inexperienced Drivers: High-school-aged drivers add another layer of risk. 15 to 24-year-olds have the highest overall crash rate in Louisiana. Many teen drivers are newly licensed and lack experience behind the wheel. This can lead to errors in judgment, such as misjudging parking distances or failing to yield to pedestrians.
  • Poor Visibility: Cars in school parking lots are often packed tightly together, making it difficult for drivers to see around corners, back out of spaces, or spot pedestrians.

Common Injuries in School Parking Lot Crashes

Accidents in school parking lots may seem minor due to the slower speeds, but they can still result in serious injuries. Typical injuries in these crashes include:

  • Whiplash: One of the most frequent injuries in low-speed collisions, whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jolted back and forth. This can happen during rear-end collisions or sudden stops, leading to neck pain, stiffness, and even chronic headaches.
  • Broken Bones: Pedestrians, particularly students walking through the lot, are vulnerable to being struck by vehicles. Even a light impact at low speeds can lead to fractures in the arms, legs, or ribs, depending on how the person falls or is hit. Drivers and passengers may also suffer broken bones, especially if they are not wearing seat belts during the crash.
  • Head Injuries: Even at low speeds, a collision can cause occupants to hit their heads on the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows. These impacts can lead to concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which may have lasting effects on memory, concentration, and cognitive function.
  • Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains, and bruising are common outcomes of being jolted in a parking lot crash. These injuries affect the muscles, tendons, and ligaments and may not be immediately apparent, but they can lead to long-term pain and discomfort if left untreated.

Who Is Liable in a School Parking Lot Crash?

Liability in school parking lot crashes can vary depending on the circumstances. Several parties could potentially be held responsible:

  • The Driver: In most cases, the driver who caused the crash is primarily responsible. They could be held liable for any injuries or damages if they were distracted, speeding, or otherwise negligent.
  • The School: If the school fails to maintain a safe parking lot, it might have some responsibility. For example, the school could be liable for contributing to the accident if the lot was poorly designed, lacked signage, or had unclear traffic flow.
  • The Driver’s Parents (if the driver is underage): In Louisiana, parents can sometimes be liable for their child’s actions if the driver is underage and causes the crash. Louisiana law includes provisions for parental responsibility in cases of negligence or reckless driving by minors.

What To Do After a Crash in a School Parking Lot

The steps you take after a school parking lot crash can make filing an insurance claim to help with the damages easier. Do the following after the collision:

  • Stay Calm and Check for Injuries: Immediately check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 for emergency assistance.
  • Move to a Safe Location: If the vehicles are blocking traffic or pose a danger, move them to a safer spot. However, if they are severely damaged or it’s unsafe to move them, leave them in place and wait for law enforcement.
  • Contact the Police: It’s important to report the accident, even in a parking lot crash. It’s legally required for accidents that result in injury, death, or $500 or more in property damage. Law enforcement can document the scene and file an accident report, which may be necessary for insurance claims.
  • Exchange Information: Get the contact and insurance information of the other driver(s). If students or staff are involved, notify school officials about the accident. Keep a record of your communication with the school or any reports administrators make.
  • Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including any vehicle damage and the surrounding area. If there were any witnesses, try to get their contact information.
  • Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the crash to your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process.
  • Seek Medical Care: Always visit the doctor after an accident. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not present symptoms until hours or days later. Prompt medical attention treats your injuries and documents them for insurance claims.
  • Consult a Louisiana Car Crash Lawyer: Consult a Louisiana car crash lawyer to understand your rights and legal options. A skilled attorney from Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers can investigate the accident and determine who may be liable to help you receive a fair settlement.

Protect Your Rights After a School Parking Lot Crash

Crashes in school parking lots happen more often than you think due to heavy traffic, distracted pedestrians, and inexperienced drivers. Our experienced Louisiana car crash lawyers at Dudley DeBosier can provide knowledgeable, compassionate legal support if you’re involved in an accident.

Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you pursue the financial compensation you deserve.

 

Disclaimer: This content has been reviewed by Chad Lederman, Director of Legal Operations at our New Orleans office.