When it comes to hitting the shopping mall during the holiday season, it can still be a real jungle out there. Today’s parking lots are busier than ever, with holiday traffic mixing with curbside pickup drivers, delivery vans, and people hustling in and out of stores. And while cars have gained more technology in recent years, human nature hasn’t changed much. Parking lots remain accidents waiting to happen—not to mention a favorite hunting ground for thieves who would love nothing more than to swipe your Christmas right out of your car.
So, it goes without saying there are plenty of things to watch for, from your personal safety and that of other pedestrians, to protecting your vehicle and everything inside it.
Parking Lot Safety
According to the National Safety Council, tens of thousands of crashes still occur in parking lots and parking structures every year, and their most recent surveys show more than 60% of drivers admit to being distracted in parking lots—even at low speeds. Add in the holiday crowds and you’ve got a risky mix. Here’s what you can do to minimize those risks:
• Don’t be distracted behind the wheel. Put down your phone, turn down the radio, and stay alert to what’s happening around you. And the same goes for walking—if your head is buried in your phone, you’re an easy target for both inattentive drivers and thieves.
• Watch for children and other pedestrians, especially near store entrances where the traffic pattern gets chaotic.
• Park in well-lit, well-traveled areas. LED lighting upgrades have improved many lots, but you still want visibility.
• Avoid squeezing into tight spaces—you’re asking for door dings or a wrestling match trying to get back in the car.
• Skip parking between two tall SUVs or vans. Your view when backing up will be terrible.
• Don’t rely solely on tech. Backup cameras, parking sensors, and cross-traffic alerts help, but they’re not perfect. Always look over your shoulder and use your mirrors.
• Keep your seatbelt fastened. You’re still in a car, and the person backing out next to you may not be as careful.
• Practice basic courtesy. Holiday stress turns tempers short. A little patience can prevent a confrontation in a crowded lot.
• Remember where you parked. Take a picture, note the row, or use a location app. With more lots adding identical “curbside pickup” zones, it’s easier than ever to get turned around.
Deterring Thieves
Parking lots remain a favorite playground for thieves—especially during Black Friday weekend and the final shopping rush before Christmas. Even if there’s a security or police presence, they can’t see everything. Stay alert and use these tips:
• Stow bags and gifts in the trunk or cargo area and keep them out of sight. Smash-and-grab thieves love visible shopping bags.
• Keep purses, backpacks, and small bags in a firm grip, not dangling loosely.
• Always lock your doors. Many vehicles now let you confirm or lock remotely—use it.
• Have your keys or key fob ready as you approach your car. Don’t stand at your door fumbling.
• Never leave your car running while loading or unloading packages. Nationwide, thefts of cars left running (“puffing”) spike during the holidays.
• Don’t open your car door or window to a stranger, no matter how friendly the approach seems.
A NEW TREND we’re seeing in major metro areas—is thieves using distraction tactics. One person gets your attention by pointing out something “wrong” with the back of your vehicle as you’re getting in. When you step out or turn away, a second thief reaches into the car and grabs whatever is accessible—usually purses, shopping bags, or phones. Your best defense is to load your packages quickly, get inside, lock the doors immediately, and avoid rolling your window down for anyone you don’t know.
Following these simple steps will help reduce your risk of parking lot accidents and keep the Christmas grinches at bay. A little caution goes a long way—especially this time of year, when thieves and distracted drivers are both out shopping, too.
