Two Cars, One Aisle, No Referee

Parking lot claims are small in damage and disproportionately painful in process. The reason is structural: much of the Vehicle Code is written for highways, and a private lot does not come with the same clear framework of right of way.

Why fault is harder to pin down here

There is often no signage that decides it, no lane markings that survive argument, and rarely a responding officer. Both drivers were moving slowly, both were looking somewhere, and each is genuinely convinced. Fault ends up resting on general principles of reasonable care and on whatever evidence exists — which is usually camera footage or nothing.

The patterns that recur

• Both reversing from opposite spaces. Frequently ends in shared responsibility.
• Backing out into a through lane. The vehicle in the lane generally has the stronger position, though speed and visibility get weighed.
• Cutting diagonally across empty spaces rather than following the aisles — a weak position to argue from.
• Feeder lane meeting an aisle. The through lane usually prevails, but this is exactly where signage or its absence decides it.

What to do on the spot

Do not move the vehicles until you have wide photographs showing both cars in position, the space markings, and any signage or arrows. That single set of images resolves more lot disputes than any statement. Then exchange information as you would anywhere else — the duty does not evaporate because you are on private property. If the other party is not present because you struck a parked vehicle, Vehicle Code section 20002 covers off-street parking facilities and requires you to find the owner or leave a written note with your name and address.

Look for cameras before you leave

Retail lots, parking structures and drive-through lanes are often covered. Ask the business that day and ask politely; many will preserve footage if asked promptly and will not if asked next week.

Should you even file?

Lot damage is frequently modest. If the repair sits near your deductible and fault is genuinely muddy, get an estimate before you open a claim. A shared-fault outcome on a small claim is often the worst of both worlds.

Not sure what your deductible is? Send us the policy and we will tell you where you stand.