There was a car crash in Jersey Village, Texas on May 4, 2024. According to reports, a car crashed into the Little Kitchen HTX restaurant store located in the 16000 block of Dillard Drive near Highway 290. Authorities believe the crash was unintentional, with the driver accidentally hitting the gas pedal while parking at the restaurant. At least nine people were injured, and one had to be taken via Life Flight to the hospital for emergency care. The accident remains under investigation.
Accidental vehicle crashes into stores and restaurants can occur when drivers mistakenly accelerate instead of braking, lose control due to medical emergencies, or encounter mechanical issues. These accidents, known as “storefront crashes,” often have devastating consequences due to the high potential for injuries among employees and customers inside. One effective way to reduce this risk is for property owners to install barriers, such as bollards, between the parking area and the storefront. These barriers are designed to absorb or deflect the impact of a vehicle and prevent it from entering pedestrian zones.
Site planning and design play a crucial role in preventing storefront crashes. Parking spaces directly in front of entrances or large windows increase the risk of a vehicle inadvertently driving into the building. Property owners can reduce this hazard by arranging parking spaces at an angle, using landscaping to direct cars away from the building, or increasing the buffer zone between parking areas and storefronts. Clear signage and bright pavement markings can also help guide drivers and reduce confusion near high-traffic zones.
Another key preventive measure is ensuring pedestrian safety through walkway design. Raised walkways create a physical barrier between vehicles and pedestrians, minimizing the likelihood of direct impact. Placing walkways away from entrances and aligning them with barriers or bollards can further discourage drivers from inadvertently crossing into pedestrian zones. Entrances that open directly onto parking lots or roads should be reinforced with structures that can withstand vehicle impact.
If property owners fail to implement these protections, the consequences can be dire. An unprotected storefront is vulnerable to significant damage, while employees and patrons can sustain severe injuries or fatalities. Beyond the immediate harm, businesses may also face lawsuits and insurance claims due to their negligence in ensuring safety. Investing in protective measures not only reduces the potential for accidents but also demonstrates a commitment to public safety, which can enhance customer trust and community reputation
Spagnoletti Law Firm has attorneys licensed in Texas, Florida, New Mexico and New York. We have handled numerous cases involving premises defects. The firm has experience in courts across the country and the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or as a result of an accident, or been seriously injured.
The experienced attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one has been injured or lost their life as a result of an accident. Please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your legal rights.