By Erik Harden, BWC Public Information Officer
Let’s face it, parking lots can be harrowing under the best of circumstances. Throw in wintry weather and/or holiday shopping, and the mayhem increases exponentially.
However, there are steps you can take to make navigating them a little less scary. First, let’s talk about walking hazards.
Whether you’re at work or at the mall, remember to slow down and focus on walking (putting your phone away helps) when there is snow and ice. Check the weather forecast and plan your footwear accordingly. Snow boots are better than two or three-inch heels when an ice storm is in the forecast. Finally, walk with your feet turned outward and in small shuffling steps when possible. You know, like a duck.
It’s always important to practice personal security in parking areas, but even more so when shopping during the holidays.
- Park in well-lit areas and scan the parking lot for threats while leaving or arriving at your vehicle.
- Avoid shopping alone whenever possible.
- Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason.
- Have your keys ready – to help you enter and exit your vehicle quickly.
- Do not leave new purchases in plain view in your vehicle. Put bags and packages in the trunk.
- Don’t overload yourself with bags. Doing so makes you an easy target, and can make it easier to slip and fall on ice or snow.
- Above all – stay alert and aware of your surroundings always. Not to harp on it, but putting your phone away helps.
Limited spaces and frantic shoppers can turn parking lots into a free-for-all at this time of year.
The following tips will make your next trip to the mall safer and happier.
- Be aware and look in all directions as you travel.
- Drive slowly and watch for cars that might be cutting diagonally across the lot.
- Use turn signals and yield the right of way to cars travelling along aisles.
- Look for spots where you can pull through and face out to prevent the need for backing out.
Try to park in the center of a parking space. Don’t be the person who parks over the line, diagonal or not into a space far enough. Doing so may not give other drivers enough room to park their car without harming yours.
Spending just a little extra time to park will improve your chances of avoiding an accident.
BWC Blog 