How to Avoid an Automobile Accident in a Parking Lot

The chances of having an automobile accident in a parking lot are very high this time of year. Loaded down with blind spots and numerous amounts of activity, these parking lots are a breeding ground for accidents. The ability to avoid one of these accidents takes a good degree of observation in several areas of focus.

Listed below are some suggestions which can help to keep your insurance rates down, and might also help to save someone's life. Keep in mind, although the automobile's speed is not as fast as it is on the highway, the chances for an accident or a fatality are still very high.

Locating a parking spot

This single act of parking is when the chances for an accident are most eminent. Some shoppers are very anxious to park and quickly get inside to shop. You've seen these types of drivers who'll cut anyone off just to get that precious up front parking spot.

As you're driving up and down the rows of parking spots most of your attention is focused on the vacant spot. This is when a car backing out of a spot might escape your attention and back into you while you're attention is focused in the opposite direction.

Always keep your eyes scanning in all directions looking for any moving objects. Don't keep all of your attention focused on just an empty spot to park. Keep a sharp eye out for "anything" moving, which also includes children who might have escaped their parent's attention. It's always better to be too safe than sorry later.

In and out of the store

Although you're not in your automobile this is another time when you can be struck by a vehicle. As you make your way towards the store, watch for any vehicles entering or exiting their parking spots. Keep in mind of the many blind spots which these drivers are experiencing as they back out of their spots.

Although all of these parking lots are sectioned off in rows of parking, not all drivers respect these rows of cars. Young children should always be closely attended as you enter and exit the store. Their life could very well depend on your attention

Backing out of your parking spot

Backing out of your parking spot is when most parking lot accidents happen. Any time a vehicle is in reverse the chances for an accident is doubled. More blind spots are present in your vehicle especially with cars and trucks parked beside you.

Upon arriving at your vehicle, always check the area out which you'll be backing into. Check for people walking up and down the isle, as well as cars entering or exiting the parking isle.

As you back your vehicle out it's also a good idea to toot your horn to warn anyone who's out of your peripheral vision. Always visually check the areas around your vehicle before you start to back out. Ease out slowly from the spot as you assume your place in the isle. Always be aware of anyone moving in the parking lot such as children, and shopping cart attendants.

Ways to avoid a collision

One of the best ways to avoid a collision in a parking lot is to park away from congested areas of parking. The walk doesn't actually take you much longer, and the exercise is good. Small and compact cars should always try to park away from trucks and SUV's which increases the blind spots in your vehicle.

Patience and driving experience is a must this time of year in parking lots. The holiday season is here and people are basically in a rush. Your close attention and your driving abilities are the two tools you have to avoid an accident in a parking lot.

Sources of information:

www.telemundo51.com/automotive/2723823/detail.html
www.bottomlinesecrets.com/article.html