During the holiday season, finding a parking spot in a crowded mall can be a challenge in and of itself. Fighting for that perfect spot can bring out the worst in some people.
Recently, I was walking towards my car when I noticed another vehicle closely tailgating me. This situation got me thinking, is there such thing as parking lot etiquette? Are there certain behaviors that many of us do, but should avoid?
Here are five tips for the parking lot to making parking a safer and better experience for both you and other drivers:
1. No Tailgating
When you’ve been circling around the parking lot for a while, it can be tempting to follow someone out of the store and to their parking spot. But driving behind someone cannot only be annoying for the person you are following; it can also be dangerous—especially if you’re distracted.
2. Obey Traffic Laws
Finding a parking lot can be stressful but your search for the perfect spot can be dangerous if you are speeding or if you roll through stop signs.
3. No Stealing Spots
If you’ve ever waited for a spot only to find that another car has pulled into the spot, you know how aggravating this can be. To avoid a potential confrontation between you and an angry driver, don’t pull into a spot when it’s clear someone else is waiting or it.
4. Limit Waiting Time
The next time you wait for a parking spot, think about the cars lined up behind you. Would you be willing to wait for someone else to park? Probably not. If you find yourself waiting, move on after one or two minutes to avoid aggravating other drivers.
5. Stay in Your Spot
While it may sound like I’m stating the obvious, when you’re in a rush to start shopping, parking exactly between the lines might be the last thing on your mind. But before you rush into the mall, check to make sure that you’re not taking up two parking spaces.
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