How can I avoid parking lot crashes and costs?

During the shopping season, it is crucial to focus on something other than the sales, and the shopping rush. You should also keep in mind that malls and mall parking lots will be packed with hurried and distracted shoppers.

One in five automobile insurance claims involves parking-lot collisions. According to the Independent Insurance Agents of America (IIAA), 80 percent of crimes committed at shopping facilities are made in parking lots.

In order for you to avoid being one of the many victims who have serious or maybe fatal injuries because of accidents in parking lots, it is highly recommended for you to consider the following safety tips:

• Use your turn signal and drive slowly.

• When backing out of spots, be extra careful. Be aware of reckless drivers who speed through lanes, cars waiting to get your spot and others who are backing out at the same time.

• Park away from buildings to help avoid dings and dents from car doors during the day. Avoid such secluded areas of obvious reasons during nighttime.

• If there are no adequately lit parking lots, then you should complain to the necessary authorities. Make sure that if you do have the possibility, you park in well-lit parking areas. This will prevent any unplanned collisions.

• If you don’t feel safe, make sure that you as mall security to walk you to your car.

• Make sure that your shopping bags are out of view. You might want to leave them in your trunk to avoid catching the attention of unwanted predators.

• Cars that cut diagonally across lots should be carefully observed and made sure that their actions are not repeated by you.

• Make sure that before leaving your car, that you roll up your car windows and close all car doors.

• When going to the Post Office, be extra careful! Most holiday accidents occur in the Post Office during holidays. Mailing gifts, letters, cards and other things cause more and more people to go to the Post Office.

• In busy lots, make sure that you don’t park between spots.

• Review your coverage with your insurance agent. It is important to know exactly what your policy covers.