A parking lot might be the last place you expect an accident, but tight corners and limited visibility can lead to scrapes and fender benders. While there’s no way to ensure that other drivers won’t make a mistake, being alert and employing defensive driving can significantly reduce the likelihood of an accident and subsequent collision repairs. You should also follow the tips below for parking lot driving.

4 Ways to Avoid a Parking Lot Accident

1. Take Your Time

It’s common sense to slow down in a parking lot, but many drivers disregard that in favor of parking quickly. You never know when a car will start backing out, or a pedestrian will step out from behind a vehicle, so slowing down is critical for your safety and others in the parking lot. The extra time is more than worth it if you can avoid collision repairs.

2. Look for a Pull-Through

Many accidents occur when backing out, as you have a lot of blindspots from the cars around you. If you can, find a parking spot where you can pull through and avoid backing out when you’re leaving. You should also aim to center yourself in between the parking lines, or you may increase the chances that someone else will scrape your car or put a door ding in it.

3. Stay Focused

Because you’re driving so slowly, it may be tempting to let your attention wander. However, a parking lot is an unpredictable space, so don’t check your phone, take phone calls, or blare music. You want your eyes and ears to be fully aware of the area around you.

4. Upgrade Your Car

Many new models of cars include features like backup cameras, parking assist systems, and automatic braking when an object is detected. If your vehicle is too old to have these features built in, you can often have some of them added. The cost of a backup camera or warning system is well-worth avoiding collision repairs.

Even with cautious driving, parking lot accidents may happen. If you get in one, you can get collision repairs at Jerry Ernst Auto Body in Cincinnati, OH. For over forty years, they’ve helped drivers throughout South Ohio and Northern Kentucky get new paint jobs, repair damaged car bodies and frames, and add decals to customize their vehicles. To discuss collision repairs, call (513) 871-7200, and visit their website to learn more about their services.