Think of yourself as a warrior in the Parking Lot Wars.
Rushing, dodging, and braking in a crowded lot filled with shoppers and children has already resulted in car crashes throughout the area.
Perhaps it?s not surprising that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety notes that 20 percent of all vehicle collisions that result in damage occur in parking lots.
“Sometimes normal, rational-thinking people can become someone completely different when the search for convenient parking and bargains begin,” said Ragina C. Averella, manager of public and government affairs, AAA Mid-Atlantic. “Instead of walking a few extra feet or planning to reach the mall without driving, some shoppers will ruin the holidays for themselves and others.”
That?s a shame especially for the elderly and those with small children in tow, said Jeffrey Boone and Ed Kriston, approved automotive repair specialists, AAA Mid-Atlantic?s Towson Office.
“If there is a nearby empty parking space and you see an older person or someone with children searching for a spot, let them have it,” said Boone. “It is the holiday season and we should see what good we can do for each other.
Consider some of these tips from Boone, Kriston and Averella to keep your holidays jolly and safe:
» Keep your finger on the car?s remote panic button when walking. Also, don?t override the “one click” system that only opens a driver?s door. Opening all doors with two clicks allows thieves to enter a car at the same time as the driver. Use the system.
» Keep the headlights on even during daylight. It allows you to see and beseen.
» Park on the outskirts of a parking lot. Spaces are more plentiful, traffic is lighter, and collision risks are lower.
» Park in the center of the spot. If you have an expensive car, park on the outskirts of the lot rather than taking up two spots. Not only is that inconsiderate, but an annoyed driver may damage your car.
» Park so you can pull straight out. It?s safer and saves gasoline.
» Take your GPS, cell phone, and other valuables with you. That will deter thieves that “window shop.”
For more information on this and other car safety strategies, go to www.aaa.com.
