When you’re looking for a place to park your car, you probably already avoid dark streets and rough neighborhoods. It’s not just crime you need to think about when parking, though. Certain spots can increase your risk of vehicle damage—ranging from broken windshields to dents. The guide below explores what to watch out for.

Where to Avoid Leaving Your Car

1. Under Trees

During the autumn, parking under a tree can result in your vehicle getting pelted with falling debris, including leaves, acorns, pine cones, and twigs. If these don’t lead to cracks and chips in the windshield, sap from the tree may corrode the paint. In the winter, snow and ice might drop from overhanging branches or cause the limb to come down altogether. Therefore, opt to park out in the open if a garage is not available.

2. Near Construction Sites

Construction sites are dusty by their nature. If you park too near one, it’s likely your car will be dirty by the time you come to fetch it again. Flying debris might also scratch or dent your vehicle. Additionally, the roads surrounding your vehicle may get blocked off by the work or heavy machinery, making getting home difficult.

3. Near Playgrounds & Ballfields

All it takes is one fly ball for car owners to need a windshield replacement. When visiting the playground or ball field, look for a parking spot far enough away from the line of fire to protect your car. Furthermore, keep your vehicle in the garage at home, rather than near where the neighbor’s kids practice their swing.

4. Close to Shopping Center Entrances

It’s natural to want to park as close to the entrance of the shopping center or grocery store as possible. However, being in these congested areas increases the likelihood of dents, dings, and scratches—whether they be from stray shopping carts or careless individuals who hit your vehicle with their car doors. Instead, park where there is less traffic. You’ll protect your car, have an easier time finding a spot, and get some extra exercise. 

5. Near Damaged Vehicles

Vehicles that have unprepared dents, broken windshields, missing paint, or broken lights may be driven by individuals who don’t always take care to avoid hitting other cars. Therefore, if there is a spot open near one of them, think carefully before taking it.

Broken windshields aren’t only inconvenient; they can be dangerous, obstructing your field of view and making the glass more likely to blow out in case of an auto accident. If yours has chips and cracks, turn to Auto Glass Experts in Hastings, NE. With more than 40 years of combined experience in auto glass repair, they promise efficient and affordable service. Visit them online to learn more about their offerings. Call (402) 463-0025 to schedule an appointment.