If asked what the top three locations of car accidents are, it is unlikely parking lots would be quoted by many. Yet, it is one of the most common places for collisions. According to statistics from the National Safety Council in the USA, there are over 50 000 accidents in parking lots each year accounting for approximately 20% of all car crashes.
What may be even more surprising than those statistics is that there are as many as 500 deaths due to parking lot collisions yearly. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, expands: “While South Africa’s stats are limited, it is safe to assume that parking lots here are just as ideal locations for collisions with other vehicles, people and stationary objects.
“Unfortunately, drivers in parking lots do not give the same respect to road signs and markings that they do on other roads. Additionally, distraction amongst both drivers and pedestrians is more prevalent. Lastly, as drivers have just reached their destination, their awareness levels also automatically drop. This all combines to creates an accident waiting to happen.”
Steps to navigate parking lots safely:
Follow the rules!
As unnecessary as you may think it is, do not ignore any road markings or signs in a parking lot. All normal road laws apply as well, such as driving in the left-hand lane and obeying one-way lanes.
Don’t speed
The generally accepted speed limit in parking lots is to not exceed 10km/h. Even if the lot seems empty, it is the perfect place for people to suddenly step into your lane or a car to unexpectedly reverse out. Additionally, stopping in time is difficult with less time and space to react.
Hyperawareness
In parking lots your attention is not only on other vehicles but people walking to their vehicles (often ignoring road rules as well), children who may run out and stationary objects like pillars. Before leaving a parking spot, be aware of every potential object or person around one.
Be selective
The perfect parking spot is not the one closest to the entrance, it is the one safest to exit later. A parking spot where drivers can pull through are the best. Be sure there is nothing dividing the spots. If you cannot find a pull-through, reverse into your parking spot. This provides the best visibility when leaving. Ideally, select a spot against a wall in a well-lit area.
Extra check
Before getting into your vehicle, take a quick look around your vehicle for smaller obstacles not visible once you climb inside.
Rearview = limited view
Do not solely depend on rearview cameras to reverse into or out of a parking spot. It is an aid when reversing, not a replacement for mirrors or checking over your shoulders.
Never neglect to follow these tips when driving in a parking lot to avoid costly and even potentially tragic mishaps.