In Utah, a car crash occurs every 10 minutes. A car accident can be devastating to the people involved as well as to their loved ones. Each accident can cause serious injuries and in some cases, can be fatal. The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) says that speed is the leading cause of car crash deaths in the state during the 2012 to 2016 period.
Car Crashes are Prevalent in Parking Lots
Car accidents occur not only on main roads; they can also happen in parking lots and garage structures. Parking lot accidents are more likely to happen during the holidays because many people drive to shopping malls and other establishments.
Different distractions can contribute to car accidents in parking lots. Data show that 66 percent of drivers nationwide would make phone calls while they drive through parking lots. Other distractions include the following:
- Programming GPS systems
- Sending text messages
- Using social media
- Sending or receiving emails
- Taking photos or watching videos
Apart from distractions, traffic experts say other factors contribute to fatal car crashes in parking lots, such as
- Potholes or cracks
- Inadequate pavement striping
- Poor lighting
- Debris
- Lack of signage
More Than a Curb Appeal
As a Utah facility owner or manager, one of your duties is to maintain your parking spaces. This will not only enhance your curb appeal, but also keep them safe for your customers. You need to get asphalt cracks repaired. These cracks may have been caused by repeated exposure to heavy vehicles and poor maintenance. If left unattended, these cracks could damage vehicles and cause serious injuries if an accident takes place.
Additionally, protecting concrete in your facility is essential to prevent certain elements from damaging the parking space. Vehicular traffic, harsh elements like snow, ice, chemicals, and others can fracture the concrete over time.
Consider using concrete coatings as they are an excellent solution in maintaining the safety and value of your property. It can also avoid costly restorations. You may use epoxy and urethane coatings to make concrete decks durable, flexible, and watertight, among others. For UV protection and insulation, use elastomeric systems.
Creating a Safe Parking Space
You can minimize parking lot accidents with proper precautions. For instance, you can install signages around the area reminding drivers to drive safely.
You’ll also need to evaluate the structural design of your parking lot. The space should have enough space for vehicles and pedestrians to move around easily.
Experts suggest that the parking area in your facility should minimize the distractions for drivers and pedestrians. It should also limit the drivers’ opportunity to increase their speed while at the parking space since it’s the leading cause of car crashes.
Lighting in parking lots should be well-maintained, too. Dim areas can cause momentary blindness to drivers, which can lead to accidents. Strategically placing your lights can minimize their risks.
As a facility manager, maintaining your property goes beyond aesthetic purposes. You must invest in preventive measures to keep your customers and employees safe as they drive through your parking lot. Providing safe spaces for your customers can help boost your reputation, too.