Hot or Not: Parking-Lot Etiquette

Dec 14 2009 by Jennifer Newman

The holidays can bring out the worst in people, especially in parking lots. There’s a cutthroat mentality that emerges when holiday shoppers are looking for the perfect parking spot. This behavior is a Not and will certainly get you on Santa’s naughty list.

With Hanukkah in full swing and 11 shopping days till Christmas, it’s time for a review of parking lot etiquette.

Observe all traffic signs: No rolling through stop signs or zooming down lanes; stop signs and speed limits are posted to keep everyone safe.

No stealing spots: This probably causes more parking-lot rage than any other transgression. Do not pull into a spot when it’s clear that someone else is waiting for it.

No stalking: Do not drive slowly behind someone who’s walking to their car. It’s annoying, and there’s no guarantee that they’re actually leaving the parking lot. They might just be dropping off their bags before the next round of spending.

Limit how long you’ll wait for a spot: You might be willing to wait all day for that prime parking spot, but the cars lined up behind you won’t be. If the car hasn’t pulled out after a minute or two, it’s time to move on and let someone else get that spot. It won’t be easy, but it’s never easy doing the right thing.

Park between the lines: When pulling into a spot, make sure you’re lined up between the lines. There’s nothing worse in a crowded parking lot than a driver who takes up two parking spaces because they can’t pull into a space correctly — or because they’re a jerk.

These tips could help secure a spot on Santa’s nice list. Are you naughty or nice when looking for a parking spot? Tell us in the comment section below.