There’s way more to driving and parking than just following a bunch of rules from the aging driver’s manual you studied before getting your driver’s license. It’s true that it is the responsibility of both motorists and pedestrians to drive defensively to avoid the occasional parking lot mishap, but the system works best when all of us are paying enough attention.
Whether you are going to the supermarket or dropping off your car close to an airport before a vacation, here are some of the most important rules to follow in parking lots. It’s important to prioritize safety rules and make everyone happy.
Take care to park between the lines.
One of the most important childhood lessons is about learning to color inside the lines. Well, the same concept works when we are getting behind the wheel as adults. Knowing how to park appropriately inside a parking space is something you need to learn and follow by heart.
Only use one spot.
This one pretty much goes without saying: When you park your car, make sure you don’t take up more than one spot. The reason behind it is quite intuitive: it takes up an extra parking space that someone else might want to use. Even if the space you decide to park your car in is surrounded by empty lots, it doesn’t mean they will stay that way by the time you get back.
Avoid tailgating other drivers.
Finding the right parking spot when you are short on time is always a stressful endeavor. However, it is rather crucial to give drivers a fair amount of space in a parking lot. You can successfully avoid accidents (and stress) by simply not pulling up too close to another driver, who could also be pulling out of a spot or be on the hunt for one.
If you’re still unsure about the length of space that’s generally accepted as a safe distance, make sure you leave enough room for another vehicle between you and the car ahead.
Make sure your parked car is visible.
Probably one of the most horrible feelings in the world, especially when we’re running a bit late, is to think that you finally found an open spot in a crowded lot, only to discover later on that another car is tucked far inside the space.
Whether you have ever noticed this or not, drivers of small cars are generally notorious for hiding while parking. When you park your car somewhere visible, it helps ensure that your car isn’t accidentally damaged by someone who’s not paying attention or is slightly distracted and doesn’t notice you right away. When it comes to traffic (and parking), visibility saves lives and also saves you from disappointment.
Don’t block other cars.
Squishing the car into an inadequately sized or even a makeshift parking spot is quite tempting, but you should still consider how much room you and your neighbor might require to open doors and trunks so you can comfortably load and unload your groceries, bags, and passengers.
Leaving enough space will ensure that everyone’s cars stay away from dents and dings. Moreover, if it doesn’t seem like drivers and passengers can move freely after you park your car, you might want to find a different spot.
Park in a spot that’s properly allocated.
Whether you notice a parking spot that’s earmarked for a disabled driver, electric vehicle, or employee or is unencumbered, it’s still advised to park in a spot that’s meant for you. After all, architects and engineers design parking lots to meet the needs of various drivers.
So yes, you might have to find a little extra patience, but don’t worry; you’ll find that parking spot. Park in line with the rules of the road and make sure you show respect to your fellow drivers, keep everyone safe, and avoid costly citations.
Check the mirrors.
This suggestion could seem a bit self-explanatory, but you need to remember to check your mirrors and rear windows before leaving the parking spot. You never know: accidents could happen if drivers assume a lane or aisle is completely clear without checking behind them. That’s why you should make checking your mirrors and blind spots a habit, so navigating a parking lot will be safer for everyone.
MindYourTurn signals
Remember to indicate with your turn signal when you’re occupying a parking spot. The reason is also quite intuitive: drivers behind you could be looking for spots themselves, and the blinking light will give them the needed heads-up to keep a safe distance as you turn into a spot.
If your turn signals are currently out of order, make sure you use hand signals. It’s true they’re quite antiquated, but they’re also very useful to know in case of an emergency.
Keep your hands on your car.
There’s nothing more annoying than hearing a car’s blaring security alarm droning on endlessly. In fact, many safety systems get triggered by touch alone. Make sure you avoid damaging another driver’s car or driving your fellow drivers nuts with screeching alarms. Also, mind your hands, carts, and car doors when you’re moving through the lot.
Don’t follow strangers.
Well, we’ve all been there: you finally find a spot opening up in a busy parking lot, especially during rush hour, and for a brief moment, you feel like you’ve won the lottery. As good as it might feel to be able to track down a spot, stalking a pedestrian as they walk to their car isn’t exactly the way to go.
Not only do you make strangers feel spooked out and unsafe, but luring about only leaves room for distracted driving that could potentially lead to an accident.
Don’t jump the front line.
When you pull into a spot, make sure you aim straight for the middle. Pulling too far forward into a parking spot might result in taking up too many spots. Where there’s no barrier, learn to park your car at an appropriate distance from the dividing line between rows of parking spaces.
Watch for pedestrians.
Keep your eyes on the road, and try to give people walking from their cars enough space and time to cross your path safely. Even more, try to remember that just because someone is supposed to use a certain crosswalk, this doesn’t mean they will do so every time. The best thing you can do is to drive slowly, stay alert, and make eye contact with other pedestrians. Also, expect the unexpected at all times.
Walk as fast and safely as you can.
When you’re outside the car, hustle on by, but make sure you do it safely. Also, keep your eyes peeled for drivers who could be distracted while looking for a spot. You also want to make sure not to doddle when a driver waves at you across their path. As a general rule, you should stay at least a couple of steps away from vehicles, whether parked or moving, to prevent setting off an alarm or even getting hit.
Take note of the parking restrictions.
Make sure you check all restrictions on spots and parking lot zones before leaving your vehicle. You want to look for signs and read them thoroughly. For instance, an open space in parking lots is open for a very good reason, whether it’s safety protocol, street sweeping, or even passenger unloading.
Just to be clear, a free area doesn’t imply a usable parking spot. You might want to avoid getting a ticket, or even worse, a tow.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you’ll be happy to know we have many more in store, such as: Top 8 Best Cars for Outstanding Road Trips
