Bedell & Stripto

Helping Those Who Have Been Injured Recover For More Than 25 Years

When illegal parking results in a car crash

On Behalf of | Feb 15, 2026 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

Frequently, drivers who strike other vehicles are at fault for the crashes they cause. The failure to monitor their surroundings or maintain a safe speed in traffic might make them liable for the damages that result from the collision.

Occasionally, people who strike other vehicles may not have technically been the party at fault. Especially if the vehicle they hit was stationary, decisions made by the driver of the parked vehicle might actually be the underlying cause of the crash. If another driver parked in an illegal or unsafe location, then the driver who struck them might not technically be to blame for a collision.

The law governs parking

Many people assume that they can park their vehicles just about anywhere they can legally access. However, state law imposes numerous restrictions on parking, especially on public streets.

People should not park in front of driveways or intersections. They should avoid parking their vehicles near curves and hills that could compromise visibility.

They should not leave a vehicle parked in a lane intended for moving traffic, even if they only need to make a delivery or pick someone up from a house as a rideshare driver. When a driver chooses to park their vehicle in an unsafe location, they may ultimately be at fault for any crash that occurs due to the visibility issues caused by their parking choices.

Documenting the circumstances of a car crash, including taking pictures of a vehicle parked in an unsafe manner, can help those not at fault for a wreck hold the right party accountable. Those facing challenges when they pursue compensation for motor vehicle collisions may require the assistance of a lawyer as they seek to prove fault and evaluate their options for compensation, and that’s okay.