Jason Stephens | July 9, 2025 | Car Accidents
Many drivers assume traffic laws only apply on public roads. However, what happens if someone runs a stop sign in a private parking lot in Texas? Could the police issue a ticket, and what are your rights if you’re injured in a crash because of it?
Learning how traffic laws work on private property is important after a parking lot accident or other incident. While not every situation will lead to a citation, some offenses still fall under state law even when they happen in privately owned areas.
How Texas Treats Private Parking Lots
Parking lots are usually private property, whether they’re outside a shopping center, apartment complex, or office building. Because of this, local police typically don’t have the same authority to enforce all traffic laws as they do on public roads.
However, Texas law does allow officers to enforce some traffic regulations on private property. According to the Texas Transportation Code, police may issue tickets for things like reckless driving or DWI even if they occur in a parking lot. These are criminal offenses, not just traffic infractions.
However, when it comes to common traffic violations (like failing to stop at a sign), the law is less clear. If you’ve been cited for running a stop sign in a parking lot, it’s likely in your best interest to get legal advice prior to admitting guilt or paying the ticket.
Can You Still Be Held Liable in a Crash?
Even if the police don’t issue a ticket, the other driver is not off the hook. If someone ignores a stop sign and causes a crash, they may still be considered negligent under civil law. That means they can be held financially responsible for the injuries and damages they cause.
Parking lots are full of potential hazards, including pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. Drivers still have a legal duty to operate their vehicles with care, even on private property. Failing to yield at a marked stop sign could be strong evidence that a driver breached that duty.
If you’ve been hurt in a parking lot crash, proving the other driver’s negligence is key. Eyewitness statements, surveillance footage, and photos of the scene can all support your case, even without a ticket from law enforcement.
What to Do After a Parking Lot Accident in Texas
If you’re involved in a crash in a parking lot, take the same steps you would on a public road.
Protect your safety and legal rights by doing the following:
- Call 911 if someone is hurt or the vehicles are seriously damaged. Officers may still respond, even on private property.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
- Take photos of the accident scene, including any stop signs, vehicle positions, and visible injuries.
- Look for surveillance cameras nearby that might have captured the incident.
- Seek medical treatment right away, even if you don’t think you’re badly hurt. Some symptoms might only appear later on.
- Avoid apologizing or making statements about fault, as they could be used against you.
From there, it’s a good idea to speak with a personal injury attorney. A lawyer can review your situation and help you understand whether you have a valid claim for compensation.
Contact the Fort Worth Car Accident Lawyers at Stephens Law Firm, PLLC for Help Today
Just because an accident happens in a parking lot doesn’t mean it’s minor or that the at-fault driver can avoid responsibility. If you were hurt because another driver ignored a stop sign or acted carelessly, you may be entitled to compensation under Texas law.
The Fort Worth car accident lawyers at Stephens Law Firm, PLLC can help you gather evidence, file a claim, and deal with the insurance company on your behalf. Your lawyer also won’t charge anything for attorney’s fees unless they recover money for you. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents
1300 S University Dr # 300
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 420-7000
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents – Weatherford Office
109 York Ave Suite #201
Weatherford, TX 76086
(817) 409-7000
