Car parking etiquettes to always remember
There’s more to driving and parking than memorising the regulations from the outdated drivers’ education manual you learned before getting your licence. Though both vehicles and walkers must drive conservatively to avoid the occasional parking lot mishap, the system works best when we are all courteous and observant. Here are 18 unspoken parking lot rules to obey, whether you’re driving to the store or dropping off your car near the airport before a vacation;
Take note to park inside the lines: Learning to colour within the lines is one of our first lessons as children. When we get behind the wheel as adults, the same notion applies, including driving properly inside a parking area. Straighten out your car and park it evenly between the lines of the parking space you’ve chosen. Parking evenly makes it much easier for you and your neighbours to get in and out of your car, load baggage, and avoid fender benders.
Use only one spot: It should probably go without saying, but don’t park your car in more than one location. This takes up a parking spot that may otherwise be used by someone else. Even though a parking lot is empty when you arrive, it does not guarantee that it will remain so.
Do not obstruct other vehicles: It may be tempting to cram your car into an insufficiently sized and/or impromptu parking spot, but consider how much room you and your neighbour will need to open doors and trunks to load and unload baggage and people comfortably. Allowing ample space guarantees that no dents or dings occur on anyone’s vehicle. If it doesn’t appear that drivers and passengers will be able to move about freely once you’ve parked, look for another location.
Check your mirrors: Remember to check your mirrors and rear windows before driving out of a parking spot, even if it seems obvious. When drivers presume a lane or aisle is clear without checking behind them, accidents occur. Make it a practise to check your mirrors and blind zones to make navigating a parking lot safer for everyone.
Keep an eye on your turn signals: When pulling into a parking area, always use your turn signal to indicate. Drivers behind you may be seeking for parking spots as well, and the blinking light will alert them to keep a safe distance as you pull into one. Use hand signals if your turn signals are out of commission for whatever reason.
Keep in mind the parking restrictions: Before leaving your vehicle, double-check any restrictions on parking spots and parking lot zones. Look for indicators and pay attention to them. There’s always a need for open space in parking lots, whether it’s for safety reasons, street sweeping, or passenger offloading. To be clear, a free space does not mean a parking place that can be used. Pay attention to the signs to avoid a ticket or worse, a tow.