Shopping for the holidays can be fun and exciting, especially if you are taking little ones to see Santa or letting children pick out the perfect gift for family and friends.

For many people, heading to the mall during the holiday season is a tradition, a way to spend quality time with family. However, during the holiday season, getting into the mall parking lot can be dangerous, with increased traffic, people in a hurry to run the many errands that crop up during the holidays and dangerous weather. These tips can help keep you safe from accidents as you make your way to the mall this holiday season.

Pay Attention in Parking Lots

Whether you are searching for a parking space or walking through the parking lot on your way into the mall, be aware of your surroundings. Don’t talk on the phone or text as you walk through the parking lot as this distraction could cause you to walk into the path of an oncoming car.

While driving, watch for people who are on the phone and slow down considerably when you are near them. Especially watch small children who may be overly excited this time of year and could break free of the grip of an adult who may be walking with them through a parking area.

Use Your Turn Signal and Remain in Traffic Lanes

Always use your turn signal when you are making turns in parking lots, whether it is to move into a traffic lane or to turn into a parking space. Never drive across parking areas, but instead use the marked traffic areas in the parking lot as shoppers may step out of vehicles or small children may dart between the cars.

The mall is not the only parking lot where you need to use caution, however. Research shows that post office parking lots have the highest incidence of accidents during the holiday season due to high customer turnover.

Winter Weather Tips

One of the biggest causes of injury in parking lots is slips or falls during winter weather. As hard as malls, shopping centers and other businesses try, they may not be able to clear the entire parking lot of ice or snow during the holiday shopping season.

These tips can help you avoid becoming an accident statistic in a parking lot when weather turns bad during the busy holiday season.

• Adjust your mirrors and seat before exiting your parking space.
• Try to walk on clear spaces as much as possible.
• Avoid using your phone or headphones in an icy parking lot.
• Drive slowly when the parking lot is ice or snow covered.
• Make eye contact with drivers when walking through an icy parking lot. If you don’t think the driver sees you, stop and move away from the vehicle.
• Choose footwear with non-slip soles and good ankle support, such as snow boots.
• Watch for snowplows and snowblowers. Although most businesses operate them during non-working hours, they may be necessary during business hours during a storm.
• Remember that snowdrifts can prevent drivers from seeing traffic signs, crosswalks and pedestrians. Try to avoid walking near high piles of snow.

Lundy Law wishes everyone a safe, healthy and happy holiday season. If you or a loved one are injured in a parking lot accident, contact us by telephone or by filling out our contact form to learn what rights you may have.