It`s logical for anyone to think that parking in the garage or any available lot is safer than the traffic-congested streets. However, don`t be surprised that many accidents can happen even in the parking lot, especially in a crowded one. Although these accidents happen at low speed, they could be costly and cause damage to your cars. The parking lot would be the safest place if everyone followed the rules and tips to avoid collisions. That said, here are some tips you should follow to help you avoid accidents in crowded parking lots:
- Drive Slowly
You may have already heard of the saying that slow and steady wins the race. Besides, this isn`t a racetrack, but a parking lot. Hence, you have no reason to drive speedily here. Parking lot accidents are often caused by reckless drivers who ignore warning signs, drive speedily within a crowded space, and cut across empty rows.
Slowing down won`t only help you avoid posing as a danger to other cars or drivers, but it`ll also prevent you from being a victim of another driver`s carelessness. Also, there are wheel stops, such as low density polyethylene wheel chocks, that you can use are best used to avoid accidents in parking lots.
A maximum speed limit of 5mph is recommended in a parking lot. This will give you enough space and time to think of your next move and park safely.
- Don`t Forget Pedestrians
To avoid parking lot accidents, don`t forget that your focus isn`t only on cars and structures, but also on pedestrians. Perhaps, you want to drive out of the parking lot of a shopping mall, and pedestrians may be too carried away to watch out for you. You must watch out and ensure no one is in your way. In such instances, there`s no need to press your accelerator.
Your foot should always be on the brakes, watching out for adults or kids who may come out of nowhere. Even when no pedestrian is in sight, you should be prepared to have any of them right in front of your car.
- Use Your Signals
It`s wrong to think that your signals are only meant for driving on the highway. As long as you`re behind the steering wheel, even when you`re at a parking lot, you must use your driving signs. Other drivers and pedestrians have no idea of your next move. Are you turning right or left? Front or back? How would they know if you won`t tell them through driving signs? Ensure that the appropriate lights are on, indicating their respective meanings. Nobody should be caught unaware of your next move in the parking lot as it could cost a life or property.
- Use Your Mirrors
The mirrors aren`t there for the sake of it. They`re meant to help you see what`s going on behind you. Ensure to adjust your rear mirrors properly. Here`s a tip: check if your mirrors are still correctly positioned when you get back into your vehicle after your shopping spree or lunch in your favorite restaurant.
Perhaps, it`s tilted a little due to the movement of passersby. Don`t assume until it`s too late to realize. Your mirrors will help you to see a broad view of your back. You get to see pedestrians and vehicles and be able watch out for them. Your mirrors are the eyes of your car, so adjust and use them properly.
- Create Enough Spaces
Getting back to your parking spot and seeing your car with scratches from the neighboring car door can be frustrating. However, this may be unavoidable when the cars are tightly parked, leaving little or no space for the doors. To prevent this, try to distance yourself considerably from the next vehicle parked to yours. This might come with a bit of inconvenience. Still, you`d rather face the stress than become a victim of someone else`s carelessness.
- Ensure Extra Care While Backing Out
Because parking lots can be crowded, you may be left with no option but to drive in reverse to move your car. This should, however, be done with extra caution. Don`t rely solely on what your mirrors tell you. To be extra sure, carefully turn your head to the back at intervals to see how clear the space is. However, you can never be too careful when driving. Watch out for pedestrians and oncoming vehicles to avoid collisions.
- Move With Caution
You can`t afford to be careless while driving in a parking lot. Be attentive and watchful. Follow parking lot markings strictly.
Conclusion
Driving carefully will keep you from possible harm caused by reckless drivers, as well as benefit those around you. Parking lots are safe places to park your car, but only if the necessary rules are obeyed. Applying these tips and adherence to driving rules will greatly reduce parking lot accidents.