Road safety
Parking lot safety
Every parking lot crash is preventable, yet almost a third (31%) of crashes in B.C. occur in parking lots.
Prioritize safety by slowing down, paying extra attention for pedestrians and other vehicles, and backing into parking spots.
Backing up for safety
There are many safety benefits by backing into parking spots. Backing into parking spots provides a greater field of vision when exiting and exposes less of your vehicle than if you were reversing out of the parking spot.
Tips to stay safe
Slow down and pay attention. As you enter or exit the parking lot, watch out for pedestrians and cyclists.
Use your signals and obey all posted signs. Help pedestrians and other drivers anticipate your actions: ensure your reverse lights work, use your turn signals, follow all traffic signs and obey the rules of the road.
Avoid congested areas. Park in less busy areas or farther away, if possible.
Know your size. Park in spots that are large enough for your vehicle and with enough room to be able to open your doors without hitting a neighbouring vehicle.
Know your noise. If you drive an electric vehicle, be aware that your vehicle may be harder for pedestrians to hear.
Don’t only rely on a backup camera. Use your mirrors and shoulder check to confirm and monitor your surroundings.
Back in. Backing into parking spots reduces blind spots, increases your field of vision and exposes less of your vehicle to traffic than when reversing.
Stay safe by focusing on the road. When walking to and from your vehicle, use crosswalks and sidewalks where possible, avoid entering a vehicle's blind spot, stay alert and look for cues of vehicles exiting parking spots (such as reverse lights or engines turning on).
