Pedestrian Parking Lot Accidents In New York City: Statistics And Prevention

Last week, a Brooklyn church parking lot was the scene of a tragic pedestrian accident. An elderly driver accidentally pressed their gas pedal instead of their brake pedal, plowing over a group of women and children on their way into the chapel. One woman was killed and several others were seriously injured in the NYC pedestrian accident.

Many pedestrian accidents don’t happen on the streets, they happen in parking lots and driveways – places where those on foot and those behind the wheel are both present in large numbers. In fact, recent statistics show that two in ten pedestrian accidents in New York State take place in parking lots. While many associate parking lot with minor dings, scratches, and fender-benders, being hit by a car in a parking lot while on foot can lead to serious injuries and even death – even when the vehicle is traveling at slow speeds.

How can you help prevent parking lot pedestrian accidents?

• If you are a driver, check all of your mirrors and blind spots before backing out of a parking space. Don’t back up farther than you have to and don’t back up suddenly. Be aware that a pedestrian could approach from any side of your vehicle.
• If you are a pedestrian, be wary of cars and their blind spots. Don’t assume that a car sees you. Don’t walk closely behind cars and be extra careful at night. Be aware of reverse taillights and headlights. It’s cliché, but true: look both ways before crossing in front of traffic.
• If you are the owner of a parking lot, make sure that the lot is well lit and that it has clear lines, lanes, and crosswalks.