Parking Lot Accidents and the Holidays

The holiday shopping rush is a busy time for consumers and businesses alike. As storefronts, shopping malls and shops see foot traffic reach its annual peak, the parking lots that serve these establishments see a major increase in activity. With inclement weather affecting our area this time of year, parking lots can be the scene of avoidable car accidents.

According to Business Fleet, 14% of all reported auto accidents in 2007 took place in a parking lot. 80% of all bumper scratches happen during parking, and parking lot accidents can average around $1,500 per claim, which can cause insurance rates to rise. Narrow lanes, hurried drivers and blind spots can turn a trip to the store into a headache for drivers who find themselves involved in a collision. While some accidents by nature are not avoidable, there are simple steps to avoiding parking lot collisions that you can take.

• Check your mirrors and back out slowly. In parking lots, cars and pedestrians are constantly moving. It is imperative to check all mirrors before leaving any parking space.
• Clear your vehicle of snow, ice and other visual impairments. Having a fully clear field of vision can decrease the chance of you not seeing another driver backing out or pulling into a space near you.
• Take your time. Don't be in a rush to pull out of a spot. Back out slowly, checking mirrors and looking back through your rear windshield. Proceed at all times with caution.
• Park away from the front door. While this may not seem like an appealing option during a Chicagoland winter, parking away from the front door-and away from the majority of the traffic in a parking lot-can help you avoid a collision with a pedestrian or vehicle.

Also remember, if you do have an accident, don't panic. Either call the police to have them fill out a report, or exchange information with the other driver and then contact your agent right away to discuss your options. Following those simple steps, however, may drastically reduce your chances of being in a parking lot accident this holiday season.