When you pull into a parking lot, you probably don’t consider any of its potential hazards. The truth is that parking lots are quite dangerous as they are designed mainly for vehicles instead of pedestrians.

According to a recent report released by the National Safety Council’s Journal of Safety Research, over 2,000 people died on business parking lots between 1993 and 2003. This is a shocking statistic that proves just how dangerous parking lots really are. Parking lots have speed limits and traffic markings for good reason. The bottom line is that both drivers and pedestrians should begin treating parking lots as if they are busy street intersections. Let’s take a look at some safety tips to improve the well-being of drivers and pedestrians who traverse parking lots.

Pedestrian Parking Lot Safety

• Pedestrians should be hyper-aware of their surroundings when walking across a parking lot.
• Too many pedestrians make the mistake of assuming that drivers can see them as they walk across parking lots. In many instances, pedestrians actually see or hear the vehicle before the driver can see them.
• We should all treat parking lots as if they are busy streets. Look each way before crossing. Always walk on the crosswalks. Walk on the sidewalks when possible.
• Use parking lot aisles rather than spaces in between vehicles when walking to and from your parking space.
• Stay away from sections of the parking lot where drivers have a difficult time seeing you. If possible, walk in groups so that drivers can see you.
• Wear appropriate footwear with suitable traction when the weather is bad. This way, you won’t slip and fall to the ground where drivers might not be able to see you.

Driver Parking Lot Safety

• Drivers should consider parking in spaces far away from the facility. A distant space will keep you away from pedestrians and other vehicles. A distant parking space will also reduce the chance that shopping carts or other vehicles will hit your car.
• If possible, avoid putting your vehicle in reverse. Plenty of accidents happen when driving in reverse as it is difficult to see everything that is going on behind the vehicle.
• Find a parking space that allows you to drive forward when exiting rather than putting the vehicle in reverse. If you can’t find such a parking space, back into a different space so you can exit with ease.
• Those who drive motorcycles or ride bikes must adhere to the same traffic rules as those who operate traditional vehicles.
• Lay off the gas! Parking lots have 10 MPH speed limits for good reason.
• When the Tampa Bay skies open up it is imperative that you slow down to reduce your chances of skidding.

Drive with caution in parking garages as they have uber-tight parking spaces and low clearance.