Parking Lot Research Paper

Words: 552
Pages: 3

You might be surprised to learn that parking lots are dangerous places. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that approximately 14 percent of all collisions resulting in damage to a vehicle occur in parking lots, and research conducted by the National Safety Council found that more than 2,050 work-related fatalities happened in employer parking lots during the decade ending in 2003. These tips can help improve parking lot safety for drivers, pedestrians and workers.

Avoid Areas of the Parking Lot that Are Closed
Whether they are applying new pavement markings, repairing cracks or applying sealcoating, asphalt contractors will place cones, barriers or other obstacles to indicate that the area is closed to traffic. Never try to
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For some reason, many people relax their vigilance as soon as they turn into a parking lot, lulled into a false sense of security when they reduce the speed at which their vehicles are traveling. Drivers become preoccupied with finding the best parking space, while pedestrians are often rushing between their cars and the building's entrance. Pedestrians could walk in front of a vehicle, or drivers may fail to see a pedestrian. Be especially wary when backing out of a parking space, and whether you are driving or walking, watch out for cars that are backing out of a parking space.

Watch Out for Damaged Patches
Even a well-maintained parking lot can develop a crack or pothole. These can pose a tripping hazard, but if a vehicle is traveling at a sufficient rate of speed, the line of travel can be affected.

Bring Your Manners with You
Especially around the holidays or during inclement weather, some people forget the need for proper parking lot etiquette. Park in the center of the space, and never take more than one space. Obey the arrows indicating the direction in which traffic should flow, yield to pedestrians even if they are not at a crosswalk and never race to claim a parking space before some other driver "steals" it. As a pedestrian, never assume that a driver will stop for you or even see you. Do not walk behind a car that is backing up, look both ways before you cross a traffic lane and do