FAQ
I was hit in a Black Friday parking lot—how is fault determined in low-speed back-out or pedestrian collisions?
Parking lots are private property, but Michigan negligence rules still apply. Common patterns:
- Two cars backing: both must keep a proper lookout—fault is often shared if both reversed simultaneously.
- One backing, one traveling in the lane: the backing driver usually bears more fault for failing to yield to through-lane traffic.
- Pedestrians: drivers must use reasonable care and yield to pedestrians in marked crossings and walkways; pedestrians must also use due care. Serious pedestrian injuries can meet Michigan’s threshold to sue for pain and suffering. Evidence (camera video, vehicle angles, point-of-impact, witness statements) drives these calls.