You'd probably be surprised to know that parking lots are actually one of the most common places for car accidents.
It might seem like a pretty safe place, right?
But with so many people walking around, cars backing out, shopping carts flying everywhere, and people distracted by their phones, things can go south really fast.
In fact, about 20% of all car accidents happen in parking lots. And if you're ever unfortunate enough to be injured in a parking lot, don't worry. There are car crash injury attorneys who can help you figure out what to do next.
When you’re driving in a parking lot, always be on the lookout for kids. Children can be unpredictable. They might run after a ball or dart out from behind a car without warning. They don’t always think about safety the same way adults do.
They’re excited to get to the store or restaurant, and that excitement can make them less aware of their surroundings. It's even dangerous that kids are shorter than adults, so they might be hidden behind other cars or obstacles.
To stay safe, make sure that you slow down as you approach areas where kids are likely to be. Look for signs of children, like playgrounds or family-friendly stores. Always be ready to stop if you see a kid, even if you think there’s no one around. It’s better to be overly cautious than to risk an accident that harms a child.
Just like kids, adults can be distracted, too. People often look at their phones, chat with friends, or even juggle shopping bags while walking through a parking lot. This distraction can make it hard for them to notice cars that are backing out or turning.
As a driver, you should be aware of this. Keep an eye out for pedestrians who seem to be focused on their phones instead of the road. If you see someone walking while looking down, be prepared to stop and give them space. You can also use your horn gently to alert distracted walkers that you’re nearby.
Unfortunately, parking lots can also attract criminals. Thieves may be watching for easy targets, like someone distracted by their phone or carrying shopping bags. They might try to steal bags from cars or approach people in the lot.
To protect yourself, always be aware of your surroundings. Lock your car doors and keep your windows up when you’re parked. If you see someone acting suspiciously, trust your instincts and avoid that area. Parking in well-lit areas and using security features, like alarms, can also help keep your vehicle safe.
Parking lots often lack the same traffic rules as public roads. There might not be clear lane markings or stop signs, which can confuse drivers and pedestrians. This lack of structure can lead to accidents because drivers won't even know when to stop or yield to pedestrians.
As a driver, what you should do in this situation is to treat a parking lot like a mini-road. Always be ready to yield to pedestrians, and be cautious when entering or exiting spaces.
You should also use your signals when turning to let others know your intentions. Drive at a safe speed; typically, 5 to 10 mph is a good range. If you’re unsure of where to go, slow down and look for signs or directions.
