March 24 2022 0Comment
parking-lot-accidents

How to Avoid Common Parking Lot Accidents

Learn a few simple tips on how to limit the chance of parking lot accidents.

Finding ways to limit the chance of parking lot accidents is always a top concern for businesses. A parking lot accident can happen in many ways, whether it’s due to a distracted driver, speeding, or someone being careless. Staying proactive by looking at all of the different ways to limit the chance of parking lot accidents is key to creating a safer place for your employees and customers.

How Can You Make Your Parking Lot Safer?

One way to decrease the chance of accidents is to post visible signs throughout the parking lot. Directional signs, stop signs, and speed limit signs can play a key role in limiting the chance of parking lot accidents. Making sure the entire parking lot is well lit at night is also important in making it easier for drivers to see oncoming traffic. Working with an asphalt paving company to fix potholes and other damages to your parking lot will also help to reduce the possibility of an accident.

Here is an overview of the most common types of parking lot accidents.

Hitting a Parked Car

One of the most common accidents that occur in parking lots is hitting a parked car. This can happen in numerous ways, whether it’s accidentally backing into a car, clipping the side of a vehicle, or bumping another car by opening your door. It’s important to never leave the scene of an accident, as you will need to exchange insurance information with the other person.

Two Cars Collide While Leaving Their Parking Spaces

Another common occurrence is two vehicles hitting each other as they leave their parking spot. Typically, this is one of the few times that the 50/50 rule will apply, which means both parties are held responsible for their fault in a parking lot accident due to neither driver having the right of way.

Cars Hit Each Other While Going for the Same Parking Space

Two vehicles can also be involved in a wreck by trying to get into the same parking space. Different factors will determine who is at fault. It’s important to exchange contact information and file a police report if any injuries or damages occur.

What To Do If You Are Involved in a Parking Lot Accident?

Sometimes accidents can occur even if you are a safe driver, whether it’s bumping into a parked car or minor fender benders with a driver pulling out in front of you. You will need to reach out to your insurance company and let them know what happened, as an agent can help you file an insurance claim with your auto insurance provider.

It’s also a good idea to record any evidence at the scene of the accident by taking pictures of the damages with your smartphone or a camera. Also, taking detailed notes from the other driver is important, such as getting their name, address, driver’s license number, phone numbers, and the name of their insurance company.

Tips On How to Avoid Parking Lot Accidents

Following a few tips can play a key role in limiting the chance of a car accident while in a parking lot. Even an accident involving only one car can be expensive and cause your insurance rates to rise. Practicing safe driving habits can save you a lot of stress. For example, it’s important to avoid parking crooked in a parking space to ensure the vehicle next to you has more than enough room to back out.

It’s also a good idea to avoid solely relying on your backup camera, as blind spots while you are backing up can result in an accident. Always staying aware of your surroundings is key while your car is moving on a feeder lane. Parking in a less congested area may cause you to walk further, but it’s safer than constantly circling a parking lot searching for a nearby parking space.

Contact PLS to Learn More Tips on Preventing Parking Lot Accidents

Parking Lot Services (PLS) specializes in installing asphalt parking lots for businesses and commercial properties in the Tampa Bay area. Finding ways to improve safety for your asphalt parking lot is always our priority. Our team has many years of experience in the asphalt industry, whether you need sealcoating, repairs, maintenance, or parking lot striping services.

Feel free to contact PLS today to learn more and schedule a no-cost consultation!