Being hit by a car in a parking lot may seem like a minor accident—but don’t let the insurance company convince you it’s not worth fighting.
You’re driving through a St. Louis parking lot—maybe pulling into a space or heading toward the exit—when suddenly, another vehicle backs out and slams into your car. Even though these collisions typically happen at low speeds, the damage and injuries can be significant—and insurance companies often dispute who’s at fault.
At The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C., we’ve helped countless clients in St. Louis recover compensation after parking lot accidents. Here’s what you need to know if you’ve been hit by a car backing out of a space.
FREE CASE EVALUATION
Is the Backing Driver Always at Fault?
In most cases, yes—the driver who is reversing must yield to all traffic before backing out. Under Missouri law, vehicles traveling through the parking lot aisle have the right of way. Drivers backing up must:
- Check mirrors and blind spots
- Yield to moving vehicles
- Reverse slowly and cautiously
When a driver backs out without doing this and hits a passing vehicle, they are typically considered at fault.
What If the Other Driver Says You Were at Fault?
Insurance companies may try to argue that you were speeding through the lot or not paying attention. But unless there’s clear evidence of reckless driving, the backing driver is usually responsible.
Missouri’s comparative fault system allows you to recover damages even if you’re partially at fault—your compensation is reduced by your percentage of responsibility. That’s why it’s crucial to have evidence on your side.
How We Prove Fault in Parking Lot Accidents
At The Hoffmann Law Firm, we help clients build strong cases using:
- Surveillance video from nearby businesses
- Photos of vehicle positions and damage
- Witness statements
- Police or incident reports (when available)
These details clearly show that the other driver failed to yield when backing up.
What to Do After Being Hit by a Backing Car
- Call the police – A report can help your insurance claim, even on private property.
- Photograph the scene – Show where both vehicles were and any signs or markings.
- Exchange information – Get insurance and contact details from the other driver.
- Look for cameras – Many parking lots have surveillance footage that could help.
- Call our local car accident lawyer – Don’t let the insurance company downplay your claim.
Why Choose a Local St. Louis Attorney?
At The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C., we don’t hand your case off to a case manager or out-of-state team. You’ll work directly with attorney Christopher Hoffmann, who has over 25 years of experience representing St. Louis drivers injured in motor vehicle accidents.