How to Create a Safe and Compliant Parking Lot in 5 Steps
Did you know one in five automobile accidents occur in parking lots? Although there are reduced speed limits in these areas, fender benders are more likely to occur in parking lots than on open roadways. So how can you lessen the number of accidents that occur in your parking lot?
1. Create Safe Intersections
Reduce vehicle collisions by posting stop signs at all intersections. Available in numerous sizes, reflective finishes, and wordings, bright red stop signs can prevent accidents from happening in your lot. Stop signs are one of the most effective traffic safety measures you can add to your parking lot.
2. Control Speed
The faster vehicles travel in any parking area, the more likely it is that serious accidents and injuries will occur. Urge individuals to drive at reduced speeds while in your parking lot. Use speed limit signs to remind drivers of lower speed limits and take advantage of speed bumps, humps, and curbs to prevent vehicles from gaining excess speed.
3. Direct Traffic Flow
Drivers should be able to easily follow the flow of traffic through your parking lot. Use traffic signs and pavement markings to identify entrances, exits, traffic lanes, and do not enter lanes. Remember to keep traffic moving smoothly by maintaining two-lane roadways wherever possible. On the other hand, if there are any one-way paths, ensure drivers are aware of them.
4. Designate Parking Areas
Establishing parking spots is just as vital as creating safe traffic patterns. Comply with your state’s ADA standards by posting the correct number of accessible parking and van accessible signs in your parking lot. Organize your parking spaces to designate reserved areas for guests and visitors, and restrict parking in fire lanes and unsafe areas with no parking signs.
5. Design Safe Crosswalks
Increase pedestrian safety by setting up crosswalks in your lot. Making your crosswalks highly visible is essential to their effectiveness. All crosswalks should be at least six feet wide with traditional parallel lines or a high-visibility crosswalk pattern. Regardless of your crosswalk design, call attention to it with pedestrian crossing signage.