In New York State, it is illegal to text while driving on the road. But what about parking lots? Because there are likely no cops patrolling the area, parking lots are a common spot for distracted driving. You’ve probably seen it within the last few days: someone coming out of a grocery store on the phone, and then continuing that conversation as they drive away. While it may seem like a normal thing to do, it is very dangerous, especially with the high number of pedestrians walking back and forth from their vehicles.
Our injury attorneys always advise you to stay off your phone until you have turned off your vehicle. In a National Safety Council public opinion poll, 66% of drivers said they would make phone calls while driving through parking lots and:
- Program GPS systems (63%).
- Text (56%).
- Use social media (52%).
- Send or receive emails (50%).
- Take photos or watch videos (49%).
Safety Tips
It’s always better to be safe than sorry when driving. The number one way to be wary of distracted drivers in parking lots is, obviously, to not be a part of the problem yourself: stay off you phone! Other safety tips include:
- Staying in your lane. Even though there are no stop signs or painted yellow lines, the normal rules of the road still apply in parking lots.
- Avoid cutting across the lot.
- Drive slowly and use turning signals.
- Anticipate the actions of other drivers, who may or may not be distracted.
- Always be mindful when backing out of a parking spot. Vehicles and pedestrians may be in your blind spot.
- Watch for small children and parents with baby strollers
Drivers are not the only ones who are distracted while in a parking lot. Distracted pedestrians also have the potential to cause an accident. It’s important to be aware of people texting while walking, and also people who are searching for their vehicle. Most of the time, they will not be looking where they are going.
If You Have Been Injured by a Distracted Driver, Contact Our Office Today
If you have been injured by a distracted driver in a parking lot, you will be eligible to file a personal injury claim against their insurance company. Contact our office today to arrange an initial consultation.