Parking lot fender benders are some of the most minor collisions you can run into, but they can still cause headaches and hassle. Especially if you are driving a newer vehicle, you might find your ride marred by dents or scratches that are expensive to detail out. In some cases, you or a loved one might even suffer injuries in the collision. Luckily, there are some strategies you can employ to reduce your chances of being involved in a parking lot collision. Read on to learn more about the steps you can take to protect yourself, your passengers, and your vehicle.
Understanding Common Causes Of Parking Lot Accidents
Parking lot accidents are frequently caused by several common causes. One major cause of parking lot fender benders is distracted driving. Eating, adjusting the radio, or being on the phone can cause a significant crash. Poorly designed parking lots with limited visibility can also play a role. Blind spots created by parked cars, large vehicles, or poorly lit areas can make it challenging to see potential dangers. Finally, high traffic volume and tight spaces can create a stressful environment, making you more likely to misjudge a maneuver or react poorly to another driver’s mistake. Regardless of the collision’s cause, a car accident law firm may have the resources you need to move forward with your life following the incident.
What Are Defensive Driving Techniques?
Defensive driving techniques can help you navigate parking lots safely and confidently. To start with, maintain a steady speed throughout the lot. Driving at a safe, predictable speed allows you to avoid sudden stops, react to sudden hazards, and avoid erratic maneuvers. As you are driving, be sure to use all available visual aids. Keep an eye on your mirrors, use your backup camera (if your vehicle has one), and do not become overly reliant on one field of vision. Stay aware of your surroundings and anticipate what other drivers may do. Assume that other motorists do not see your car or will be likely to make mistakes.
Proper Parking Practices
Choosing a good parking spot is the first thing you should do. As you drive around, watch for spots away from entrances, exits, and cart return areas. These high-traffic areas are heavily congested, increasing the chances of getting into a fender bender. After selecting a parking spot, take your time parking straight and centered within the lines. This reduces the chances of someone else slamming their car door into your vehicle on accident and you will have an easier time pulling out of your parking spot when it is time to leave.
Exiting A Parking Space Safely
Before you pull out of a parking spot, carefully check your surroundings in all directions. As you begin to back up, go slowly and cautiously so other drivers can see you and come to a stop. Do not rely solely on your mirrors or backup camera, but be sure to turn your head and look out the back window to ensure your path is clear. Many backup cameras have limited fields of vision that make it challenging to see obstacles directly adjacent to your car, such as a child or an abandoned shopping cart.
Keep An Eye Out For Pedestrians
As a driver, it is incredibly important to be mindful of pedestrians present in a parking lot. You should always keep an eye out for people walking, especially children, since they may be unpredictable. Even if there is not a designated crossing signal, yield to pedestrians near store entrances or walkways. In almost all cases, pedestrians have the right of way, so you must do your best to defer to them whenever you can safely do so.
Avoiding Parking Lot Collisions
By following the strategies outlined in this article and taking a proactive approach to your own safety, you can significantly reduce the risk of experiencing a parking lot collision. Defensive driving, proper parking techniques, and heightened awareness of your surroundings allow you to navigate parking lots with confidence and courtesy. For further resources on defensive driving and parking lot safety, check out the website for your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or other driving safety organizations.
