Malls and shopping centers will be crowded this holiday season. Unpredictable traffic patterns and distracted drivers cause thousands of parking lot mishaps that cost consumers millions of dollars every year.
Parking lot safety is extremely important during the holidays. Consumers should be especially cautious about where they park because parking lots are also prime territory for thieves, pickpockets, vandals, and carjackers.
Surprisingly, common parking-lot mishaps do not involve two drivers —but rather stem from the result of improper backing into parked vehicles. That raises the likelihood of hit-and-run incidents and the chance that you will be left to pick up the tab. Playing it cautious is the only real remedy for avoiding being a victim of parking lot accidents or crime.
Parking lot safety tips for holiday shoppers
- Watch out for cars cutting diagonally across lots; drive slowly, be aware and use your turn signal.
- When reversing out of a parking spot, be aware of waiting cars, other drivers who are backing out at the same time and motorists who drive through lanes.
- Be extra aware when mailing out those holiday greeting cards. Post office parking lots have the highest incidence of accidents due to high customer turnover.
- Do not park between spots, especially in busy parking lots. You may gain only retribution from angry fellow shoppers.
- During the daytime, try to park further away from the shops to decrease the chance of dings from shopping carts or other car doors and the likelihood of vandalism; but be sure to avoid secluded areas, especially at night.
- Park in well-lit areas. If the lot is inadequately lit, say something to management. Parking-lot owners and retailers can be and have been held liable for personal injury in these circumstances.
- Ask mall security to walk with you to your car if you feel unsafe.
- Always be sure to roll up your car windows and lock your doors.
- Always have your keys ready when approaching your car and check the back seat before getting in.
- Put all shopping bags into your trunk. Do not keep them in the back or seat where they are noticeable to thieves.
- Put all of your bags in the trunk before departing one parking lot and driving to another. If you wait until your next shopping.
- destination, this allows others to see packages go into the trunk of your car and then you departing into the store or mall.
Review your car insurance coverage. Liability coverage will help protect you if you hit another driver, collision will cover the damage to your car, and comprehensive will insure you for theft of your vehicle and damage by vandals.
Have Questions? Call the Thumann Agency at (972) 991.9100