According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, over 20% of all vehicle accidents take place in a parking lot. Most of these accidents are minor in nature and do not cause serious injury. However, At Richard Schwartz and Associates of Mississippi we would still like to provide a list of tips on how these minor accidents can be avoided by drivers everywhere.

1. Slow down. Speed is the number one cause of accidents in parking lots. Slow down, especially when your visibility is low at curves and corners.

2. Park away from crowded areas. Even though it might be inconvenient, parking at a distance from others can protect your vehicle from dings, dents, and other damages associated with crowded parking lots.

3. Watch for pedestrians, especially children. This is a must in a busy parking lot. People do not always look for cars when they’re trying to get back to their own, and you never know when a stray child might appear. Always be extra cautious and on the lookout for kids.

4. Park properly within the lines. Everyone has had to park next to someone who just couldn't get it right. Parking properly reduces your chances of getting an unsightly ding in your door or someone else’s.

5. Obey all indicated stops and rights of way. In most parking lots there are stop signs and painted navigation cues on the road. Always obey these cues, for your safety and for the safety of pedestrians.

Richard Schwartz and Associates of Mississippi strive to make Mississippi a better place to drive. Following these tips will keep you and your family safer when you’re on the road. It can also make the roads a safer place to drive for everyone else. Thank you for taking the time to read this article; please share this with your loved ones and help us spread the word on safe driving.