You’ve just pulled into a parking garage in Philly—maybe for work, a concert, or a quick stop downtown. But before you even get out of the car, bam—you’re hit. Or maybe you're walking to the elevator when a car swerves and knocks you off your feet. Suddenly, what should’ve been a routine moment turns into an overwhelming, painful situation.
Parking garage crashes in Philadelphia can be surprisingly complex. Between unclear liability, multiple parties involved, and unique dangers in these confined spaces, knowing your rights isn’t always straightforward. If you’ve been hurt in a parking garage crash, you might be wondering: Who’s responsible? How do I cover my medical bills? And what happens next?
Let’s break it all down so you can better understand your options—and how the team at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim can help you move forward.
How Do Parking Garage Crashes Happen?
It’s easy to assume parking garages are low-risk spaces. After all, vehicles move slowly and people are typically alert. But that’s exactly what makes it so frustrating when a crash occurs. Common causes of parking garage crashes include:
- Distracted drivers looking for spots
- Tight turns and low visibility around corners
- Poor lighting or broken signage
- Speeding despite posted limits
- Pedestrian drivers not watching for foot traffic
- Malfunctioning gates or entry/exit systems
Whether you were in your vehicle or walking on foot, a parking garage crash can lead to serious injuries—especially in a place with limited space for maneuvering or avoiding impact.
Common Injuries in Parking Garage Accidents
Just because a crash happens at low speed doesn’t mean the injuries aren’t serious. In fact, many parking garage accidents result in significant harm, such as:
- Concussions or traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones or fractures
- Back and neck injuries
- Soft tissue damage
- Lacerations from broken glass or nearby structures
- Crush injuries if pinned between cars or barriers
Pedestrians struck by cars in garages are especially vulnerable. There’s often little room to escape, and cement flooring makes impacts even more dangerous.
Who Might Be Liable in a Parking Garage Crash?
One of the most complicated parts of a parking garage crash is determining liability. Depending on the circumstances, one or more parties could be responsible:
1. Another Driver
If another driver hit you—either while you were parked, pulling in, or walking—it may seem obvious that they’re at fault. However, even in what looks like a clear-cut case, liability may still be disputed. That’s why it’s important to document the scene and gather witness information if you can.
2. Parking Garage Owner or Operator
If poor maintenance or unsafe conditions contributed to your crash, the property owner could be liable. For example:
- Inadequate lighting made it hard to see hazards
- Poorly marked lanes or exits led to confusion
- Broken gates or mechanical issues caused a malfunction
- Ice or slippery surfaces were not addressed
Property owners have a legal responsibility to keep their premises reasonably safe. If they fail to do so, they can be held accountable for any resulting injuries.
3. Security or Maintenance Contractors
Some garages outsource maintenance, cleaning, or security. If these third parties created unsafe conditions—like failing to clean up spills or ignoring broken safety features—they could be on the hook for damages.
4. Vehicle Manufacturers
In rare cases, a mechanical failure caused by a manufacturing defect (like brake failure) may be to blame. In such situations, a product liability claim might be appropriate.
What If You Were Partially at Fault?
Maybe you were walking while looking at your phone, or you didn’t see a car backing out because of poor lighting. If you think you may share some of the blame, you might still be eligible to recover damages.
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you are less than 51% at fault, you can still recover compensation. However, your total award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you were 20% responsible and the court awarded you $100,000, you’d still receive $80,000. That’s why it’s essential to have an experienced personal injury lawyer evaluate your case and push back against unfair blame.
Steps to Take After a Parking Garage Crash in Philly
If you’re hurt in a parking garage crash, here’s what you should do to protect your health and your claim:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Even minor injuries can worsen over time.
- Report the incident to property management, garage security, or local authorities.
- Take photos or video of the scene, vehicle damage, injuries, lighting conditions, and hazards.
- Gather witness info from anyone who saw the crash.
- Keep medical records and note how your injuries impact your daily life.
- Avoid talking to insurance companies before speaking with an attorney.
The more evidence you can collect, the better your attorney can build your case.
What Damages Can You Recover in a Parking Garage Crash?
If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income or reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket costs related to your recovery
The value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, how your life has been impacted, and the strength of the evidence. A skilled injury attorney can help you fight for the full compensation you need.
Why You Need a Philadelphia Injury Lawyer After a Parking Garage Crash
Dealing with insurance companies, property owners, and legal paperwork can be exhausting—especially when you're already trying to recover from an injury. You shouldn't have to manage all that alone.
At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, we know how to navigate complex liability issues in Philly parking garage crash cases. We’ll investigate the scene, identify every responsible party, and build a compelling case on your behalf. And we won’t back down when insurance companies try to minimize your injuries or shift the blame.
You focus on healing—we’ll focus on fighting for what you’re owed.
Injured in a Philadelphia Parking Garage? Contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim Today
If you've been hurt in a parking garage crash in Philadelphia, don’t wait to find out your legal rights. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
Contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim for a free consultation today. We'll help you understand your options, hold the right parties accountable, and pursue the compensation you need to move forward with confidence.
Getting hurt in a Philly parking garage wasn’t your fault. Let us help make things right. We represent clients in Center City, Fishtown, West Philadelphia and the surrounding areas.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.