Car parks can be confusing places, and it pays to have your wits about you whenever you use one.
Here are 6 things drivers frequently fail to pay attention to, which can cause you a load of problems if you aren’t careful.
1. Ignoring signs and markings
Car parks have different layouts and rules from one site to another. The last thing you want to do is drive into a one-way system the wrong way or head up the wrong ramp. Even if you think this will save time and get you to a parking spot sooner, don’t take the risk. Following the signs and directions keeps you safe and helps avoid unpleasant encounters with angry motorists.
2. Paying attention to other drivers
Even though it’s “just a car park”, normal give-way rules still apply. But car parks often see loads of rogue moves, driving through spaces, reversing out into traffic, etc. Having your wits about you and being careful, especially during busier times helps keep you and everyone else safe.
3. Failing to stop for pedestrians
People can be a problem, whether that’s someone darting out between cars, queues around payment machines or people not paying attention. Keep in mind they’re on foot and you’re in several tonnes of car, stick to the speed limits the car park sets, be mindful and keep everyone safe.
4. Misusing disabled bays
Car parks are there for everyone’s benefit, some people need extra support, which we’ve talked about before. Blue Badge and other priority bays are there to benefit the people who need them, not everyone.
Common mistakes include:
- Parking in a disabled bay “just for a minute”
- Using a bay without a valid Blue Badge
- Not realising that misusing these bays can get you a fine
There are services (like Evology Access) that protect car parks, make sure you’re doing your bit and staying on the right side of the rules.
5. Not paying for parking
When you go to a car park, check the signs carefully. Not paying for parking, or not paying enough and overstaying, are easy ways to get yourself a parking ticket.
Taking care of your parking by following the rules is key. Even better? Pre-book your parking before you set off and plan your trip well in advance.
6. Assuming car park rules aren’t enforceable
Many drivers think that they won’t get caught, or that a quick rule-breaking isn’t that bad.
That’s where they’re wrong, and they wind up with a parking ticket.
- Speed limits, markings, and terms do apply
- ANPR cameras and private operators can issue fines
- You can still be at fault in a car park
Common sense should prevail, there are loads of ways to get caught out by a car park. Whether there’s ANPR in place or attendants walking around, being a bit more mindful is a sure-fire way to stay safer and on the right side of the rules wherever you decide to park.
Don’t forget that wherever you’re headed, it pays to plan ahead.
Download the Evology Parking app today and take care of your parking before you even set off.
