Winter driving can be stressful enough with dreary weather conditions, but a new survey from B.C.’s public auto insurer finds the holiday shopping season is also taking a toll on the province’s drivers.
A survey of 628 B.C. drivers from the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) finds 51% of drivers surveyed say they feel more stressed when navigating a busy parking lot compared to open road driving. And 25% say they’re either extremely or very nervous driving in a parking lot during busier times.
December weather can also affect drivers’ nerves. Thirty-seven per cent of respondents say they feel extremely or very nervous when driving in an outdoor parking lot in heavy rain or snowy conditions. This number grows to 42% when it’s also dark, finds the survey, conducted by Ipsos and released Dec. 9.
Most drivers (seven out of 10) have been in or witnessed a collision or near collision in a parking lot, yet 78% of respondents believe the risk of crashing in a parking lot is low to moderate. According to ICBC, 33% of all crashes in the province last year occurred in parking lots or involved parked vehicles.
Provincial stats show more than 7,500 collisions occurred in parking lots last December, making up 31% of all crashes throughout the month. On average, nearly 86,000 crashes happen annually in B.C.
“Managing your speed, being extra cautious and reversing into your parking spot whenever possible are not only safe choices, these actions can go a long way to reducing your stress and nerves when behind the wheel,” Jerry Boal, ICBC driver licensing office manager, says in a press release.
Tips for navigating busy parking lots include:
Back it in
Only 47% of polled drivers say they reverse into a parking space whenever possible. “Yet backing into your parking spot is one of the safest things you can do to reduce your risk of a crash,” ICBC says. Backing into your parking spot provides a greater field of vision to see a vehicle or a pedestrian when you exit. You’ll also have less of your vehicle exposed to traffic than if you reverse out of your parking stall when exiting.
Manage your speed
In busier parking lots, expect to see more pedestrians walking or running and more vehicles looking for a parking spot. As you enter and exit the parking lot, drive slower while watching for pedestrians and cyclists nearby. By moving at a safe speed, you’ll have more time to react to any unexpected hazards.
Keep your eyes busy
Look for and obey all posted traffic signs within parking lots. Constantly scan what is happening to the side, up ahead and behind you while driving. Watch out for pedestrians who may be obscured from sight between parked vehicles. Be aware that a vehicle in front of you waiting to park may be blocking your vision of what is happening ahead. Allow space for the driver ahead of you to back into their parking space.
Avoid congested areas
It can be tempting to find a parking spot as close as possible, but if you’re able, it’s safer to park in a less busy area further away. This can significantly reduce the hazards you may encounter while driving in or out of a spot. Park in spots that are large enough for your vehicle and with enough room to open your doors without hitting a neighbouring vehicle.
Check lights and signals
Ensure your backup and turn signals work and use your turn signals whenever maneuvering in a parking lot so that other drivers and pedestrians can anticipate your next move and stay safe.
Feature image by iStock.com/Daniel Balakov
