Parking lots at retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and other commercial businesses may seem harmless, but they can also pose dangers for visitors. If you suffer an injury in a commercial parking lot in Iowa, you may have a basis to pursue a legal claim against the business owner. This article will provide an overview of liability and legal options for pursuing injury claims stemming from hazards in commercial parking lots in Iowa.
Liability for Parking Lot Injuries
Under Iowa law, businesses have a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for invitees, including parking lots and sidewalks. If a dangerous condition exists that causes injury, the owner may be liable based on premises liability. Some common hazards that can lead to liability include:
- Poor lighting – Slick surfaces from ice, snow, rainwater buildup
- Potholes/uneven pavement
- Lack of proper traffic signs/indicators
- Poor visibility around corners or landscaping
- Debris or other tripping hazards
- Overgrown trees/shrubs blocking views
To prove the owner’s negligence, an injury victim must show that the owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to correct it or warn visitors. The owner’s duty includes regular inspection and maintenance of the parking lot.
Compensation Available in Iowa Parking Lot Injury Claims
If you are injured in a parking lot accident caused by an owner’s negligence, you may recover compensation through a premises liability or personal injury lawsuit. Possible damages can include:
- Medical expenses – All reasonable costs for treatment, rehabilitation, medical devices.
- Lost income – For missed work due to the injury.
- Pain and suffering – For physical pain, emotional distress.
- Loss of enjoyment of life – For impact on hobbies, interests.
- Permanent disability – If injury causes permanent limitation.
Iowa utilizes a modified comparative fault system for personal injury claims. Under this approach, an injured plaintiff can still recover compensation even if they were partially responsible for the accident, provided their percentage of fault was 50% or less. However, the amount they can recover will be reduced proportionately by their degree of fault. This modified comparative negligence rule aims to balance accountability while still allowing injured victims to recover damages in cases where they were not mostly to blame for the injury-causing event.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
Iowa has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. This means you must file your lawsuit within two years from the date of injury or you may be barred from recovery. Given the short timeline, it is advisable to contact an experienced premises liability attorney right away to start investigating your case and preserving evidence.
Consult a Knowledgeable Iowa Personal Injury Lawyer
Suffering an injury in a parking lot can derail your life with medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. The experienced premises liability lawyers of Monge & Associates fight to obtain full and fair compensation for parking lot accident victims throughout Iowa. We have 32 offices located in 19 states, including Iowa, Maryland, and Mississippi, and we thoroughly investigate liability and handle negotiations with insurance companies to reach maximum settlements.
Contact our office today on (888) 477-0597 for a free consultation regarding your rights and options. Our dedicated legal team is here to help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.