Safe Parking Tips for Travelling Alone or in New Areas

As a driver, navigating heavy traffic and busy roads is a daily challenge. But once that struggle ends, there’s another one waiting for you. Did you know that a large number of car accidents take place in the parking lot? This indicates that safe parking is also as crucial as safe driving. It incorporates factors such as where to park, how to park, what precautions to take and what mistakes to avoid while parking. If you’re someone who resonates with this struggle and is in search of some safe parking tips, we have got you covered. In the article below, we shall run you through some of the essential tips and tricks you could use to park your car safely while travelling alone or in new areas. 

1. Choose a Well-Lit and Visible Spot

Finding a parking spot in the first place is already challenging, and locating one that is well-lit and clearly visible can be an even more difficult task. However, doing so is crucial for both personal and vehicle safety. Studies have shown that vehicle theft is one of the most growing crimes in modern times and parking in dark or shady spots only makes such crimes easier. Try looking for a spot that has good lighting and other additional features such as clear visibility and security cameras. This not only prevents theft but also ensures parking lot safety. 

2. Avoid Parking Too Close To Other Vehicles

While it is important to park neatly and safely next to other vehicles in the parking area, it is also necessary to avoid tight spaces. When you park too close to another vehicle, you automatically increase the chances of door scratches, dents, and parking lot accidents. Limited space between two vehicles makes it difficult for both drivers and passengers to exit and enter comfortably. Such behaviours not only cause problems but also display poor parking etiquettes. 

3. Lock Your Doors and Windows

Although this might seem as an obvious action, many people tend to forget to lock their vehicle after parking it. Ensure you roll up the windows and lock your car doors after exiting to avoid any theft. Additionally, it is best to not leave any valuables such as your phone, wallet, jewellery, laptop, etc., in the vehicle as there is a high chance that they might get stolen. 

4. Hide Your Valuables

If for any reason you are unable to carry your valuables with you after parking, it is better to place them in the trunk than on the car seat. Valuables such as laptops, wallets, etc., can attract thieves when left in full view. Therefore, it is advisable to hide them. Generally, it is best to keep them in your trunk before you enter a parking lot, as doing so later could alert robbers (if any), increasing the chances of theft.

5. Stay Alert at All Times

It is common to assume that a parking lot is safe and secure as it is a common space for people to park their vehicles. However, it is important to remember that not all parking areas are guarded with cameras and other security devices. In fact, there are several parking areas that don’t even have a guard which poses a severe threat to both personal and vehicle safety. 

6. Reverse Into Parking Spots When Safe

While reverse parking might take up a couple of minutes more, it makes exiting the spot much easier. It reduces the chances of backup accidents, which often leads to injuries and even deaths. Several experts believe reverse parking to be one of the best parking tips for both safety and convenience. 

7. Secure Your Vehicle

Apart from rolling up your windows and locking car doors, it is also important to ensure double safety by providing your vehicle with double protection. If you have any anti-theft devices or if your vehicle comes with the steering-lock feature, use them to ensure the safety and security of your vehicle. Do not forget to double check if your trunk is locked properly. Lastly, to add on to all the vehicle security tips, always activate the car’s alarm system before exiting the parking lot.

8. Park Responsibly

Being a responsible driver requires more than driving defensively and cautiously on the roads. It demands safe parking practices and appropriate parking etiquettes. While most parking areas are designed to ensure a smooth flow of traffic and ease of access for all drivers, avoiding traffic signs and blocking other vehicles can cause major vehicle disruption. 

Slowing down your vehicle when entering a parking low, parking within the designated lines, and respecting reserved spaces helps maintain order and safety. It is important to remember that your duty as a responsible driver is much more than ensuring the safety and security of your vehicle alone, it’s about making driving a fun and comfortable experience for all around you. 

Conclusion

While vehicle safety is crucial, remember personal safety always comes first. Thefts and other vehicle-related crimes are unfortunately very common in modern times and it is our responsibility to help prevent them. By following the above mentioned vehicle security tips, staying alert to your surroundings and reporting any suspicious events to the designated authority, you can reduce the risks to a great extent. However, if, despite all these precautions, you still fall prey to such thefts or security incidents, prioritize your safety above everything else. 

FAQs

1. Is it safer to reverse into a parking space?

Yes, reversing into a parking space is considered safer and more practical than normal parking. Although it might take a couple more minutes, it makes exiting easier and reduces the chances of backup accidents. 

2. Are parking apps helpful for finding safer spots?

Yes, parking apps help find reliable and safe parking spots effortlessly. They are extremely useful especially when you are travelling to a new city or are unfamiliar with the location. 

3. What should I do if I feel unsafe in a parking lot?

Prioritize your safety over everything else. Leave the place immediately and call for help if needed. If you notice any suspicious activity, report it to the nearest authority at the earliest.