Love shopping, but hate dealing with a congested parking lot? You’re not alone. Whenever motorists and pedestrian traffic mix, accidents seem like an inevitable outcome. This is especially the case in busy mall and department store parking lots.
The rules of the road still apply when you’re driving one of our New England car rentals in a parking lot, so listen up! Vehicle operates need to follow the right of way, abide by lane markings and remain courteous to fellow drivers and pedestrians.
Switch Personalities
Parking lots are a transportation transition area. This is where the driver becomes the pedestrian and vice versa. Unfortunately, many drivers have trouble making this switch. After parking their vehicle, they continue to forge their way into traffic, often directly into the path of an oncoming car. Once you’ve parked your rental, take a minute to remember commonsense pedestrian practices. Looking both ways before crossing the street can go a long way.
Common Parking Lot Problems
Parking lot accidents stem from a variety of different issues. The most common issue is blind corners that often exist where roadway aisles empty into traffic lanes. Thoughtless handling in these locations can cause minor fender benders, result in pedestrian injury, or worse.
When it comes to parking one of our New England car rentals, try and pull into your spot as straight as possible. This will make it easier to avoid other vehicles when it comes time to leave. Also, avoid parking next to cars that are parked on an angle or are taking up multiple spots. Finally, try and avoid parking at the end of an aisle where there is additional exposure to vehicles turning.
Getting Out of the Lot Alive
When it’s time to make your break from the local mall remember these important parking lot safety tips from VERC New England Car Rentals.
- When backing out of a space, make sure you’re aware of the clearances between your vehicle and the vehicle to either side. What’s more, make sure to check that there are no cars or pedestrians that might drive or walk into your line of travel.
- Never stop moving your eyes. Move your eyes left to right and then turn and look directly behind you. Repeat this process until you’re safely out of your parking spot.
- While you might be in a hurry to get home, try and avoid making hasty decisions. People are always rushing in parking lots – another driver could suddenly pull out of a space behind you or rush to take your space before you’ve even fully vacated it. Just because everyone else seems to be losing their mind, doesn’t mean you have to too. Stay calm and exit the lot slowly.
- Don’t depend on the horn in your New England car rental. Honking your horn may alert another motorist to danger, but often the warning comes to late. The best deterrent to a parking lot accident is awareness and preparedness.
Many drivers in New England car rentals are forgetful of safe parking lot conduct. Whether you’re walking or driving, remember to be careful. Keep reminding yourself of proper parking lot conduct in order to protect yourself, other motorists and pedestrians.
Tags: New England car rentals
