We probably should have written this post over the holidays when people fight over parking spaces at the mall, but let’s talk about parking lot etiquette anyway because it is a thing. You trust AmeriFix to take care of your car, truck, or SUV, and we’re so happy that you do. To keep the exterior in tip-top shape and avoid nasty dings, consider using a little parking lot etiquette.
Parking Lot Lines Matter
You know how angry you get when somebody double-parks? How about when someone crowds you because he or she parked just over the space lines? Do you do this? As the Golden Rule says, “Do unto others as you would have done to you,” but even if you don’t feel like being polite, think about your car doors. If you park within a parking space as centered as possible, there is less chance someone will open their car door into your car door. If you have a big vehicle, park at the end of the lot.
Back Out Carefully
Today’s automobiles are designed to be more aesthetically pleasing than ever and with that modern look comes a ton of blind spots. When you’re ready to leave, make sure to back out of your parking space slowly and carefully. People drive like maniacs through parking lots – more on that below – so be aware of everything around you. Use your mirrors and rear-view camera if you have one to give you a panoramic view of what’s behind you and pay attention to your vehicle’s proximity sensors, too.
Watch for Pedestrians
If a toddler got away from his or her mom, would you be able to see him or her? That’s a terrifying thought, isn’t it? While backing out of your parking space, pay special attention for little ones. If you see them walking toward your vehicle, wait to back out until they’ve gone by. If you’re backing out of your driveway, watch for people walking down the sidewalk, playing in the street, or riding their bicycles. Roll down your windows, too, so you can hear people talking. This clues you in to their nearby presence.
Don’t Speed
Remember what we said above about people driving like maniacs in parking lots? That applies to you, too. Pay attention to your speed while you’re in the parking lot. Go slow to avoid accidents. People pull out of parking spaces the wrong way and many back out too fast with an “I have the right-of-way” attitude that isn’t actually true. To avoid a parking lot incident, take it slow and careful. Once you find your ideal space, pull into it slowly so you don’t ding the cars on either side.
Parking lot etiquette keeps you safe. AmeriFix keeps your car safe. Call our Franklin, TN, shop for a preventative maintenance check and service.
