A parking garage is a place where you can conveniently park your car. In the extreme hustle and bustle of modern urban life, a parking garage is like a safe haven where you look to safely tuck in the car while you perform some chores or work at the office. While it may be convenient and seemingly secure, parking garages have their own hassles, especially regarding crime and staying safe. While convenience is high on the list of motorists looking to park their vehicles, safety can be tricky, as parking garages are known for their unsafe dwellings.
According to a report, there is a high chance of getting robbed or facing a violent crime when in the parking garage. Parking structures can present safety challenges that require our immediate attention, and thus, we should always stay vigilant when parking our cars or moving through a large parking garage. Parking garages are often immense structures with plenty of real estate on offer for people who want to harm you. For this reason, prioritizing personal safety in parking garages is paramount, whether it is day or night. A negligent security lawyer can come in handy here if you’re looking to claim damages from the company operating the garage. Below, you will find more tips on safely navigating the time from parking your vehicle to moving to your office or the mall.
1. Choose Well-Lit Areas
The first tip pros shall offer you when you're looking to navigate a parking space or garage safely is to choose a well-lit area for parking the vehicle. This tip applies primarily to indoor parking structures, but some outdoor areas are also badly lit and will offer plenty of motivation for the criminally minded to act upon. Choosing a well-lit area for parking your vehicle helps you remain assured of your surroundings as you navigate the parking space to your car. Good lighting enhances visibility and thus keeps you vigilant all the time.
2. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is a no-brainer and must be acted upon by anyone using a parking garage. The moment you lower your guard and think there's no danger is the moment you let yourself become vulnerable to the criminals. You should always remain alert and be on the lookout for any suspicious activities in and around the parking garage. It is essential to mention here that you should avoid distractions such as taking phone calls or texting while walking to and from your car. Staying vigilant makes you aware of threats and helps you react better.
3. Park Near Entrances and Exits
Another safety tip that could enhance your parking experience in a garage is to park near the entrance or exit. These areas are the ones that receive the most traffic in a parking facility, and thus, it will be harder for a criminal to get you isolated with your vehicle. Well, trafficked areas are more visible and allow faster and easier access to security personnel.
4. Travel in Groups
A golden rule of staying safe in a parking garage is to walk to and from your car in groups. It could be your friend, or you could ask the security personnel on duty to accompany you to your vehicle. This way, you have more eyes to gauge possible dangers that may lurk around the corner and will also demotivate a criminal from acting upon their plans.
5. Have Your Keys Ready
Having your car keys ready when you’re approaching your vehicle is vital as it allows you a clean entry into the vehicle. Looking for your keys in your coat or pants pockets and fumbling can make you vulnerable. Also, checking the vehicle's back seat for anything suspicious before you get in is a good idea.
6. Use Security Features
In this world of modern technologies, we must utilize our car's security features to the maximum. These days, our vehicles come equipped with alarm systems, cameras, and panic buttons. You should quickly familiarize yourself with these features to use them if you feel threatened or see suspicious activity.
7. Trust Your Instincts
Sometimes, a person's gut feeling tells them there may be danger ahead. If you've got a gut feeling like this and your instincts point towards a possible unsafe situation ahead, you should always trust them. If you have doubts about the parking garage or its environment, getting yourself company and being extra cautious when approaching your vehicle is essential. You can also seek police assistance or move to a populated area and get some help.
Remember that personal safety is a priority, and taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risks associated with parking garages. Additionally, always be aware of any specific guidelines or security measures the parking facility provides.
