Parking Lot Citations: More Than Just a Nuisance

In Michigan, parking lot violations can carry both civil and criminal consequences depending on the infraction. Just because it's private property doesn’t mean there aren't rules—and enforcement often follows. Here's a breakdown of common issues and how they can escalate:

• Improper Parking: This includes parking in fire lanes, taking up multiple spots, or blocking driveways. Many of these offenses result in civil citations and fines enforced under local ordinances.
• Disabled Parking Violations: Parking in a handicapped spot without a valid placard or plate can cost you. In Michigan, this carries a fine of up to $500 and, in some cases, can result in criminal charges.
• Failure to Yield or Reckless Driving: Parking lots still require drivers to yield and obey traffic laws. Racing for a spot or ignoring posted signs can result in moving violations or worse.
• Leaving the Scene of an Accident (Hit and Run): If you bump another car and leave without reporting it, that's not just bad manners—it could be a misdemeanor or felony depending on damage or injuries.

Many people believe parking lot issues are minor—but prosecutors and judges don’t always see them that way.

Who Enforces Parking Lot Laws in Michigan?

One question that comes up often is, "If it’s a private parking lot, can I really be cited?” The answer is yes—under the right circumstances. Here's how enforcement usually works:

• Local Police: Many Michigan cities and townships have arrangements that allow local police to enforce traffic laws in private lots, especially those open to public use such as Walmart, Meijer, or a commercial plaza.
• Property Owners: Private security or store managers can issue complaints or request that police ticket or tow unauthorized vehicles. In some cities, they may also issue citations enforceable under local ordinances.
• Surveillance Cameras: Thanks to video footage, proving fault or identifying a fleeing driver after a minor accident is easier than ever. That evidence can and will be used in court.

Even without “official” roadways, parking lots in Michigan are often treated as quasi-public spaces when it comes to enforcement of driving and parking laws.

When Parking Lot Accidents Result in Criminal Charges

Yes, you read that right. Something as simple as tapping a bumper in a grocery store parking lot can turn into a criminal charge depending on how you handle it. Here are common scenarios and how they go bad fast:

1. Leaving the Scene of an Accident (Hit and Run)

Under Michigan law, you must report an accident involving another occupied vehicle or any type of injury or property damage. If you leave without doing so, you could be charged under MCL 257.618 or 257.619. Penalties can include:

• Up to 90 days in jail (for a minor vehicle damage incident)
• Felony charges and up to 5 years in prison (if the accident caused injury or death)
• Points on your driving record and driver’s license suspension

This often happens when someone scrapes a car and thinks the damage isn’t worth reporting. But witnesses and cameras may think otherwise. If you're involved in any accident, no matter how small, it's best to stick around and report it.

2. Reckless Driving in a Parking Lot

The law doesn’t stop at the edge of the roadway. Reckless driving, defined under MCL 257.626, includes any operation of a vehicle that shows willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people or property—even in a parking lot. A conviction can lead to:

• Up to 93 days in jail for a first offense
• Fines and court costs
• Six points on your license

Trying to beat someone to a space or ignoring crosswalks? That competitive edge may just land you in courtroom row.

How to Dispute a Parking Lot Citation or Charge in Michigan

It’s not uncommon to feel blind-sided by a citation or charge you didn’t expect, especially when you thought you were between the lines—literally or figuratively. Here’s how you can fight back under Michigan law:

1. Review the Citation or Charging Document

Start by identifying exactly what law or ordinance you’ve been accused of violating. This plays a critical role in your defense. There’s a big difference between a civil infraction and a misdemeanor charge.

2. Collect Evidence

Take photographs of the scene, the signage, and your vehicle’s position. If the citation alleges you blocked a fire lane but the markings are worn off or covered by snow, that's potentially a strong defense. Parking lot lines, signs, arrows—it all matters.

3. Talk to Witnesses

If someone nearby saw what happened and can vouch that you weren't at fault, their statement can make or break your case. Pick up names and contact info at the time of the incident if you can.

4. Request a Hearing

If it's a civil infraction, you may have the option to request a formal or informal hearing in district court. For misdemeanors, your first stop will be the arraignment followed by pretrial conferences where your attorney can negotiate or push for dismissal.

5. Hire an Experienced Attorney

No matter how straightforward the issue may seem, an experienced Michigan criminal defense lawyer can help identify procedural errors, negotiate with prosecutors, and challenge the citation or criminal charge. Prosecutors must prove every element of the alleged violation beyond a reasonable doubt—many can’t.

Don't let a simple parking lot incident follow you around for years. Call attorney Aaron J. Boria today at (734) 453-7806 for a free consultation. We’ve handled everything from traffic tickets to felony reckless driving—and we know how to fight back.

Real Case Example: Plymouth, MI

Just last year, our client was accused of reckless driving in the parking lot at the Target in Plymouth. A witness claimed our client was speeding into a spot and almost hit a stroller. The client was charged with a misdemeanor and hired our firm right away.

After reviewing surveillance footage and obtaining witness statements, we found inconsistencies in the claim. Additionally, the signage in the lot was ambiguous, and there was no clear indication the area was subject to public traffic enforcement.

Result? We negotiated a complete dismissal of the charges.

This is why even “simple” cases need a strong defense. Anything you say to police—or don’t say—can be used to build their case. Get in front of it before it grows out of control.

Tips to Avoid Parking Lot Trouble

Here are a few practical tips to steer clear of ticket trouble or worse:

• Always use marked spots. If you're not sure it's a space, don't park there.
• Don’t assume private property means “no laws.” Yield, stop, and drive like it’s a public road.
• Report all accidents, no matter how minimal they appear.
• If you're running late or frustrated, take a moment to calm down before navigating a busy lot. Frazzled minds make poor choices behind the wheel.

Think it’s overkill? Ask anyone who got slapped with a reckless driving charge for trying to squeeze into a tight spot too aggressively. It happens more than you'd think.

Need Help Fighting a Parking Lot Citation or Criminal Charge?

If you’ve been charged with a parking lot-related offense—whether it's leaving the scene, reckless driving, or even a basic traffic ticket—don’t go it alone. These charges can stick on your record, cause license points, and even land you in jail.

At Boria Law, PLLC, we’re here to help. Our office is based in Plymouth, and we handle a full range of criminal and traffic charges throughout southeast Michigan. With experience on everything from DUI to reckless driving, we know the court system and we know how to clear your name.

Looking for an experienced Michigan criminal defense attorney? You've come to the right place.

Conclusion

Parking lots look harmless—but in the eyes of the law, they carry real consequences. What starts with a bump or a bad parking choice can spiral into citations, criminal charges, and hefty fines. Michigan laws are crystal clear: driving and parking safely applies anywhere vehicles are in motion, even off the main roads.

If you find yourself on the wrong side of a ticket or charge in a parking lot, get informed and act fast. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and prosecutors move quick. You need someone in your corner who understands not just the law—but the local courts, the judges, and how to strategize for real results.

Call (734) 453-7806 today and let Aaron J. Boria help you get your life back on track. Because a parking mishap shouldn’t define your future.