Public parking lots and parking garages are often located in some of the most convenient locations and make it easy to park, shop, and enjoy all the conveniences a big city has to offer. However, navigating all the parking structures and parking garages that Chicago, New York, Miami, and other big cities have to offer can take some knowing if you want to stay accident-free. Follow these simple tips to make your stay and that of your car in the big city pleasant and without headaches.
clean your car
When leaving your car unattended, the smart thing to do is to make sure any and all valuables are out of sight, and preferably out of your car. While garages and parking structures are often safe, it’s always better to be careful rather than regret later. Leaving your belongings and valuables out in the open is simply causing trouble in any circumstance.
If you don’t invite people into your car with valuables, phones, CDs or stereos lying around, chances are no one will get in. If you’re limited in what you can safely take with you after you get out of your car, be sure to put your valuables under the seat or in the trunk where they won’t be seen by someone passing by.
Don’t double park
The high demand for parking spaces in most of the city’s garages results in a zero tolerance policy regarding double parking. No matter what the reason is – you have a really nice car, you’re just going to be gone for a minute or you just missed your parking spot – double parking will get you a ticket, some knocks on the door or a nice drive to the lot seizure of the city.
If you double park, even a little further down the line, you can expect a citation (if you get caught) or a doorbell. In the worst case, your car may be impounded by the city or another vehicle may scrape your paint trying to drive past you. The brief amount of time you can save by double parking won’t be worth the time it may take to track down where your car was impounded, not to mention the cost of the towing charge, impound fees, and any fines you may have racked up. . the way.
Avoid bumps, scrapes and lawsuits
When looking for a place to park in one of the city’s garages, proceed with caution. Parking garages and parking structures are filled with narrow winding lanes, sharp turns, lots of other vehicles and pedestrians.
When navigating through a parking lot, keep your parking lights on (to increase your visibility), be careful (watch for backing cars), and don’t hold up traffic waiting for a space if it’s busy. It basically boils down to using common sense.
Investigate parking lots
Because there are so many garages and parking structures in most big cities, there are plenty of bargains to be found. A garage a few blocks from your destination may be cheaper than one across the street. You can also have the added benefit of not only saving some money, but also getting a chance to get some exercise.
It may also be cheaper to park in the early afternoon or late at night rather than in the morning or late afternoon (when people are going to or from work). If you do your research and aren’t afraid to walk around a bit, you can find a great parking deal anywhere!
Parking garages in Chicago, Los Angeles, or any large city provide a great way to safely leave your vehicle while you go about your business. Just remember to stay alert, store your valuables safely or out of sight, and use common sense when entering and exiting the garage and you’ll have a safe and accident-free ride.
