It’s important to mind your manners in the parking lot. I’m leading with that because this blog is entirely about how to behave yourself and have good etiquette in the parking lot – something we don’t tend to think about too much but makes a huge difference when it comes to staying safe! And these rules don’t only apply to drivers – these are for pedestrians as well, because when we’re in the parking lot it’s important that everyone try to stay safe. You can’t rely on other people or drivers to make the right decision, so if we all make the right decision then we’re all taking care of each other! Anyway, keep reading to check out our rules for Parking Lot Etiquette (we’re sure Miss Manners would approve).

Park straight in the parking space. Make sure that your vehicle is not only straight in the parking space, but also centered. If your vehicle is crooked, that makes it harder for not only you but the drivers on either side of your car to get in and out of their own vehicles, and puts your vehicle at risk of dents, scrapes, or other minor injuries. Also, if you drive a shorter car, make sure you’re pulled in just enough that your tail end is on the same level as the vehicles on either side of you so that your space isn’t mistaken for an empty one. If you drive a larger car, make sure you are as far into the space as you can be so that your tail end is not sticking out too far, which can impact other cars’ visibility as well as put you at risk of being hit by an oncoming vehicle.

Don’t take up more than one space. If you have a newer car and don’t want to risk the paint job, park further out where there are fewer cars. Don’t be selfish and keep someone else from a closer spot just because of your paint! If taking up two spaces is the result of a poor parking job, just pull out and straighten out. Another thing to remember is that if you’re driving a larger vehicle (i.e. a truck), a lot of parking spaces are measured out for smaller vehicles that are less wide. If you find this to be the case in a spot, your best bet is to park farther out so that you have the space you need.

Take turns waiting for a parking spot. Don’t speed up to steal a parking space from someone who has been waiting longer than you! That is just plain rude, and can lead to angry driving which in turn can lead to accidents in the parking lot. You will find another open spot, and you’ll be safer for your patience. Walking is good for you, anyway!

If you’re a pedestrian, make your intentions clear. Don’t walk down the middle of the aisle, and make sure you stay on one side of the aisle. Let the cars driving around the lot know where you are and what you plan on doing, so they have one less thing to worry about and so you don’t put yourself at risk of being hit.