When you own a car, you need to take precautionary measures wherever you go. Even when you’re stationary, the body of your vehicle can get dinged or dented. While the likelihood of needing auto body collision repairs from a parking incident isn’t high, it’s always better to be careful. If you want to protect your car, do the following whenever you’re parking.

How to Park Your Car to Avoid Damage

1. Open the Door Slowly

Any time you open the car door, do so slowly and carefully. Also, look around to make sure there aren’t nearby pedestrians, bicyclists, or other vehicles coming your way. This is especially important if you’re parallel parking on a busy road; flinging your door open could result in a visit to an auto body collision repair shop.

2. Park Farther Away

As inconvenient as it may be, if you have the time, choose a parking spot away from the main entrances and exits. These are the most crowded areas, and the subsequent traffic congestion often leads to accidents.

3. Use Garages

If it’s cold and raining heavily, opt for a parking garage whenever possible to avoid getting hit by hail. Even though it seems unlikely, some hailstones are large enough to do damage that only auto body collision repair technicians can fix.

4. Consider the Environment

The weather can indirectly lead to other problems, as well. For example, on a windy day, parking near the shopping cart corral could cause a stray cart to hit your vehicle. Instead, survey the area and search for a safer spot.

5. Keep an Eye Out for Child Car Seats

If you take a parking spot next to a vehicle with a child car seat inside, leave a large buffer. Properly strapping a child into a car seat requires fully opening the door, so they need to have enough room. If they’re parked too close to the edge or you have a large car, it’s better to find another spot.

If there’s been a parking-related incident that requires major auto body collision repairs, contact Schaller Jacobson Collision and Automotive Repair. For nearly 20 years, this family-owned, full-service auto shop has served the Greater La Crosse, WI, community. With state-of-the-art technology and technicians certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, you can trust they’ll fix the problem, no matter how extensive or unusual the damage may be. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (608) 788-2545 to schedule an appointment.