Experienced drivers think nothing of pulling into a parking lot in search of a spot. After all, it probably feels as if you’ve done it a million times before. It’s crucial to remember, however, that just because parking lots may be something that you’re used to, they’re not free from danger. The risk of experiencing an accident with another car or a pedestrian exists, and is something you must be diligent about.
There are several reasons to practice parking lot safety. Here are a few reasons why you need to stay alert when in a parking lot, and 10 tips on staying safe in parking lots to keep your car, yourself, and others around you out of harm’s way.
What Makes Parking Lots So Dangerous?
Several things make parking lots dangerous places to be, such as:
- Reduced visibility around parked cars
- More pedestrian traffic than normal
- Other drivers driving negligently through parking lots at increased speeds
- Failure of drivers and pedestrians to abide by signs posted in the parking lot
Parking lots can be a hazardous environment, so it’s important to ensure that you’re paying attention whether you’re driving or walking in one.
Drivers: How to Stay Safe in Parking Lots
There are several things that drivers can do to reduce the dangers parking lots may present. You can:
Avoid distractions
In many places, you cannot use a phone or text while driving – and that includes in parking lots! Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security simply because you’re in a lot, and never let your guard down by using devices inside your car. Even when driving in parking lots, your attention should be solely on driving your car and avoiding all other distractions.
Practice caution
You must always be on alert for other cars moving through the parking lot, whether they’re parking, entering, or leaving. When leaving a parking space, make sure to stop and take a good look around for other cars or pedestrians before you put your car into motion, and don’t forget to utilize the reverse camera on your car if you have one.
Choose a good space
It’s not a bad idea to park in a space that is farther from the entrance to where you’re going. There are usually fewer cars and less pedestrian traffic in these spaces. Try to make sure the space is well lit, too.
Don’t speed
Parking lots do have speed limits, which are usually under 10 miles per hour. Make sure to abide by this and never speed. That will give you more time to react in case a car or a person is in the path of your vehicle. Drive even slower in inclement weather, such as snow or rain.
Lock your vehicle
You shouldn’t leave valuables in your vehicle, especially valuables that are visible through your windows. If you can’t take them with you, hide them from view and make sure your vehicle is locked.
Pedestrians: How to Stay Safe in Parking Lots
Once you get out of your vehicle, the dangers don’t stop. When walking to your destination or when exiting and going back to your car, you should:
Stay alert
Don’t assume you’re safe when walking and let distractions compromise your safety. You should stay alert to your surroundings and resist the urge to pull out your phone or wear headphones when walking through a parking lot.
Don’t assume
As a pedestrian, it’s never good to assume that drivers can see you simply because you can see them. Remember, vehicles have blind spots and the driver may be distracted, so act as if they can’t see you and stop when you see someone pulling out or in.
Look both ways
The advice your mother gave you when you were a kid still rings true today when it comes to parking lots. It’s important to look both ways before you walk, since some drivers don’t obey normal traffic laws or become distracted when in a parking lot. You have to take your safety into your own hands.
Stay visible
You should try to avoid things that make you less visible in a parking lot, such as weaving in between cars or standing behind poles and signs. If you’re with other people, try to stay together to make your whole group more visible.
Hold hands
If you have small kids, make sure you have a firm grip on their hands when walking through a parking lot. Children can be unpredictable, and a parking lot is a place that presents a lot of dangers to little ones.
Staying safe in a parking lot, whether you’re behind the wheel or a pedestrian, is your responsibility. Stay diligent and you have a good chance of reducing the chances of any incidents.
Featured image by Brydon McCluskey on Unsplash