A parking lot accident may or may not be included in your driving record. Considering that— if it’s reported to the police, it will also be on your driving record.
Basically, it depends on particular circumstances that determine—does a parking lot accident go on your driving record or not.
So, consider this first: What kind of accidents go on your driving record? (If it’s police find out you are responsible or at fault for a serious accident that ends up in your driving record.)
In the case of parking lot accidents, reporting the incident usually occurs if it involves serious consequences. However, minor accidents, it is typically handled privately between the parties involved.
Since minor accidents can often be resolved through compensation or insurance claims without involving law enforcement, they are not reported to the police. As a result, these accidents would not be on your driving record.
Read more to learn about motor vehicle accident act & claim fund.
For more detailed information regarding parking lot accidents and their potential impact on your driving record, look at the following section.
How is Fault Determined in a Parking Lot Accident?
Determining fault in a parking lot accident involves assessing the specific details and circumstances of the incident.
While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, several factors are typically considered:
Right of Way:
The general rule is that the driver who has the right of way has priority. If one driver failed to yield to another driver who had the right of way, they may be considered at fault.
Traffic Signs and Markings:
The presence of signs, signals, and road markings in the parking lot can play a role in determining fault. Disregarding stop signs, yield signs, or marked lanes can contribute to fault assignment.
Speeding:
Driving at an excessive speed in a parking lot can be seen as negligent, especially in areas with pedestrians or limited visibility.
Lane Discipline:
Staying within marked lanes and observing designated traffic flow is important. Failing to do so can impact fault determination.
Visibility:
Drivers must exercise caution and maintain proper visibility, especially when entering or exiting parking spaces, in order to avoid collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians.
Contributory Negligence:
In some cases, both parties involved in the accident may share fault to some extent. This can occur if both drivers were not exercising due care or were engaged in unsafe behaviour.
Parking Lot Accident: Charges and Penalties You Need to Know
Typically, parking lot accidents in Canada are not associated with specific charges or penalties, as they are often considered private property incidents.
However, certain situations may involve legal consequences based on the circumstances and actions of the individuals involved.
Here are some potential scenarios:
Hit and Run: When Vanishing Isn’t an Option
Leaving the scene of an accident without providing contact and insurance information is a serious offence known as a hit-and-run.
The consequences can be severe, ranging from hefty fines to potential imprisonment, depending on the severity of the accident. Remember, fulfilling your legal obligations and remaining at the scene is crucial.
Careless Driving: Caution Takes a Back Seat
Careless driving is a charge that comes into play when a driver fails to exercise due care and attention or consider other drivers on the road. It’s like putting the pedal to the metal on negligence.
Penalties can include fines, demerit points, and licence suspension. So, always prioritise safe driving practices and be mindful of others.
Failure to Remain at the Scene of an Accident: When Responsibility Takes Flight
If you’re involved in an accident and decide to flee the scene without exchanging insurance information or notifying the authorities, you could be charged with failure to remain at the scene.
This offence comes with its own set of penalties, including fines, demerit points, and potential licence suspension. Remember, it’s important to stick around and fulfil your responsibilities.
Improper Backing: When Reverse Doesn’t Go Well
Navigating a parking lot requires careful manoeuvring, especially when backing up. If you’re found to be backing up unsafely or without proper caution, and it leads to an accident, you may face charges of improper backing.
Penalties can include fines and demerit points. So, always be mindful when reversing and ensure a clear path.
Failure to Yield: Disregarding the Right of Way
Failure to yield can result in accidents that could have been prevented with a bit more caution. If you fail to yield to oncoming traffic or pedestrians in a parking lot and cause an accident, you may be charged with this offence.
Penalties can include fines and demerit points. Remember, giving the right of way is courteous and vital for everyone’s safety.
Final Remarks: Does a Parking Lot Accident Go On Your Driving Record?
Whether a parking lot accident appears on your driving record depends on factors such as the seriousness of the accident and police involvement. Conversely, minor accidents are resolved privately and typically don’t show up on your record.
And the fault in a parking lot accident is determined by considering the right of way, traffic signs, speeding, lane discipline, visibility, and contributory negligence.
While parking lot accidents generally don’t have specific charges, certain situations like hit and run, careless driving, failure to remain at the scene, improper backing, and failure to yield can lead to legal consequences such as fines, demerit points, and licence suspension.
Remember, this is a general overview, and circumstances may vary. Seek advice from legal professionals or your insurance provider if involved in a parking lot accident.
Eventually, safe and responsible driving practices should always be a priority to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of all road users.
FAQ
Looking for more insights on parking lot mishaps and how they could affect your driving record? Keep reading as we dive into some common questions surrounding this topic!
Do You Have to Report an Accident in a Parking Lot in Canada?
In Canada, if a parking lot accident involves injuries or significant property damage, it is generally recommended to report the incident to the police.
However, for minor accidents with no injuries, it may not be necessary to involve law enforcement. Instead, you can exchange insurance information with the other party involved and handle the situation privately through your insurance company.
What Happens if You Hit a Car in a Parking Lot and Leave in Alberta?
Leaving the scene of an accident without providing your contact and insurance information is considered a hit-and-run, which is a serious offence. In Alberta and across Canada, it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident without fulfilling your legal obligations.
If you hit a car in a parking lot, it’s important to remain at the scene, locate the owner or driver of the other vehicle, and exchange insurance information. Failing to do so can result in legal consequences, such as fines, penalties, and potential criminal charges.
Who Is at Fault in a Parking Lot Accident in Medicine Hat?
Determining fault in a parking lot accident in Medicine Hat, as in any other location in Canada, depends on the specific circumstances of the incident. Generally, the fault is assigned based on negligence or who failed to exercise reasonable care.
It’s important to note that parking lots often have different traffic rules, and liability can be shared in certain situations, such as when both drivers were not paying attention or failed to yield the right of way.
It’s advisable to gather evidence, such as photos, witness statements, and any relevant information, to support your case when determining fault in a parking lot accident.
Does Every Accident Show Up on Your Driving Record?
Not every accident shows up on your driving record in Canada. Typically, only significant accidents that involve injuries, substantial property damage, or violations of traffic laws are recorded.
Minor accidents, such as parking lot fender-benders with no injuries, may not be reported to the police and therefore do not appear on your driving record. However, it’s essential to note that insurance companies may record all accidents, regardless of severity, for assessing future premiums or claims history.
It’s best to check with your insurance provider for specific information regarding how accidents are documented in your driving record and insurance records.