Did you know one in five automobile accidents occurs in a parking lot? Though there are often reduced speeds in these areas, fender benders are more likely to occur in parking lots than on open roadways. So, how can you limit the number of accidents that occur in your own lot? Follow these seven tips:
- Control the flow of traffic.
Most parking lots are hectic. The high concentration of vehicles in a small area makes for increased car congestion. Mount traffic and parking signs, and use traffic cones and barricades during peak activity times to keep traffic moving in a safe and orderly fashion. - Discourage speed demons.
Speeding is dangerous, and even more so in parking lots because of the increased number of pedestrians. Install speed bumps, humps and curbs to force drivers to drive at safe speeds while in your parking lot. - Assign parking spaces.
Both drivers and pedestrians will be able to navigate your lot more efficiently if there are certain spaces reserved for employees as well as ones meant for visitors. As an added safety measure, consider giving out parking passes and permits to visitors. - Restrict parking in some areas.
Dedicating certain areas in your lot to be parking-free will significantly help the flow of traffic. Post “No Parking” signs in areas like these so there’s no confusion among drivers. In the same vein, prevent drivers from gaining access to zones you’ve marked as restricted. Delineators and bollards can help limit access to these areas efficiently. - Establish boundaries.
The more drivers and pedestrians know where they should and shouldn’t be, the easier it will be to maintain order in your parking lot. Use pavement marking tools – such as custom stencils and reflective pavement markers – to indicate safety lines that give individuals some direction in your lot. - Turn away trespassers.
Intruders may cause damage to grounds as well as company property. Post security signs to discourage unwanted individuals from trespassing. - Add a little light.
Provide adequate lighting in your parking lot to increase safety, security and nighttime visibility. If a light burns out, make sure it’s replaced by the maintenance staff or grounds crew as soon as possible.
From our traffic and parking signs to speed bumps, humps and curbs, Seton has everything you need to improve safety and security in all your parking lots. Just give our team of professionals a call at (877) 859-2155 or visit Seton.com to find safety solutions for every challenge.