8 Parking Etiquette Every Driver Should Follow

Driving is more than just getting from point A to point B.

Parking your car correctly is equally important and reflects on your driving etiquette.

Whether you’re a seasoned driver or just starting out, here are eight essential parking habits to make you a courteous and considerate driver.

1. Mind the Lines: Park Within Your Space

One of the simplest yet often neglected aspects of parking is staying within the lines.

Parking spaces are clearly marked for a reason.

When a car straddles two spaces, it wastes valuable parking real estate.

Always ensure your car is centered within the lines and not protruding out of the designated space.

This not only keeps the area organized but also ensures pedestrian safety by not obstructing walkways.

In places like HDB and URA managed car parks in Singapore, improper parking can result in a $50 fine.

2. Exercise Patience: Everyone Deserves a Chance

Parking can be tricky, especially in crowded or unfamiliar places.

It’s common to see drivers struggling to park their cars.

Instead of honking or showing frustration, it’s best to wait patiently.

Impatience can lead to accidents or altercations, making the situation worse for everyone involved.

A calm demeanor not only helps you but also eases the pressure on the driver who is trying to park.

3. Signal Your Intentions: Use Hazard Lights

When you’re waiting for a parking spot or about to park, turn on your hazard lights.

This simple action communicates your intentions to other drivers, reducing confusion and potential conflicts.

Hazard lights act as a signal that you’re either waiting for a spot or in the process of parking, allowing others to maneuver around you without misunderstanding your actions.

4. Respect the First-Come, First-Serve Rule

Parking spots are typically awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis.

If someone is waiting for a spot with their hazard lights on, respect their claim.

Avoid rushing in from the opposite direction or trying to take the spot from them.

Additionally, do not use friends or family members to physically “hold” a spot for you.

Parking spaces are for cars, not people.

Observing this rule maintains order and fairness in parking lots.

5. Appreciate the Wall-Huggers: Give Them Space

Some drivers park close to walls or pillars to give more room to others.

These “wall-huggers” are doing everyone a favor by minimizing the chances of dings and dents.

If you encounter a wall-hugger, don’t park too close to them.

Instead, appreciate their effort and leave enough space for them to access their vehicle comfortably.

6. Open Doors Gently: Avoid Dings and Dents

It doesn’t take a lot of force to open a car door.

When exiting your vehicle, be mindful of the space around you.

Teach your passengers to open doors gently as well.

This habit prevents damage to your car and to the cars parked next to you.

If everyone practiced this small courtesy, parking lots would have fewer scratched and dented vehicles.

7. Fold Your Side Mirrors: It’s a Small Effort with Big Benefits

If your car has auto-folding side mirrors, make sure to use them.

For cars without this feature, manually folding at least the driver’s side mirror can make a big difference.

It provides more space for others to maneuver and reduces the risk of your mirrors being accidentally knocked off.

This small act can save you from potential repairs and make getting in and out of tight spots easier.

8. Top Up Your CashCard: Avoid Gantry Hassles

In many places, parking fees are paid through electronic systems.

Ensure your CashCard is topped up before you park.

Running out of funds and getting stuck at the exit gantry can cause unnecessary delays and inconvenience to other drivers.

Keeping an extra, older CashCard can be handy for car parks that still use older payment systems.

Conclusion

Practicing good parking etiquette not only makes you a better driver but also contributes to a more orderly and pleasant driving experience for everyone.

Simple actions like parking within the lines, being patient, signaling your intentions, and respecting others’ space go a long way.

These habits reflect your consideration for fellow drivers and help maintain the harmony in busy parking lots.

Writer's note: Images are purely fictional; for illustration only.