Parking lot collisions are one cause of car accidents that often leave behind a trail of damage and injuries.
Unfortunately, some motorists don't take the same precautions while driving through a parking lot as they do with highways or major intersections. This recklessness further increases the possibility of a parking lot collision.
Ways Parking Lot Accidents Could Happen
While some accidents are low-impact collisions, others can be much more serious. These collisions are not only a threat to the motorists themselves but also to pedestrians that walk by. Still, car damage is an additional concern that could cost a fortune to repair.
Below are the most common types of collisions that may happen in a parking lot.
Parking Spot Accidents
Two motorists may prefer the same parking spot. If none of the drivers wants to give up the spot, the ensuing commotion could result in a collision.
Back-Up Collisions
Such collisions happen when one car backs out of a parking spot. It can accidentally bump into another vehicle that's driving by. If you were backing up from a spot, your car might develop severe rear-end damage as a result.
Forward-Moving Collisions
You might drive forward, out from a parking spot and bump into an oncoming vehicle. With such collisions, the damage to your car could be significant.
You may want to take better caution when you drive through a parking lot. In doing so, you may avoid these otherwise preventable collisions.
How to Avoid Parking Lot Collisions
Remember to practice the following safe driving tips to help protect both you and your vehicle from harm.
Drive Slowly
Sometimes, a parking lot can be crowded with vehicles, each looking for the perfect spot. While high motor traffic can be frustrating, keep in mind the possible dangers of an overcrowded parking lot. Lots of people may be walking around in addition to several cars backing out of their parking spaces.
Driving at a higher speed means that you've got less control of your vehicle, in case you need to brake suddenly. You're more likely to accidentally run someone over or crash into another car. Whenever you drive through a parking lot, keep to the speed limit or drive slower if you can. Doing so prevents the chances of car damage and ensures the safety of everyone around you.
Pick a Safe Spot
Look for a parking space that allows you to pull through and back up quickly when you want to leave. You also want to park your car within the parking space lines but be careful to leave equal space along the edges. If you don't leave any margins, your car could get dents if it brushes against any vehicle nearby.
Also, avoid high-demand parking spaces, especially those closest to the building most people go to. In high-demand parking spaces, more drivers will want to park their cars next to yours. Such a situation increases the likelihood of accidental door dents. With low-demand spaces, you won't have to risk parking spot collisions with other drivers who want to park in the same spot.
Practice Defensive Driving
Driving defensively helps you react quickly while on the road or in a parking lot. You learn to trust your instincts since you can't predict what another driver or passerby may or may not do.
Sharp defensive driving skills to help you stay alert to everything in your surroundings. This way, you're always prepared for the worst. You can avoid many accidents in the parking lot or on the highway if you can master this skill.
Although parking lot collisions are often preventable, they can still happen. If your car suffers damage from parking lot collisions, contact
Automotive Super Sports and get the help you need.
