Safety is a key consideration when designing and maintaining a commercial parking lot. From vehicle collisions to slips and falls, there are many accidents that can occur in a parking lot that could be higher risk without taking certain precautions. Certain parking lots may also become hotspots for crime if specific safety measures are not implemented. This post delves into some of the upgrades that are worth considering to make a commercial parking lot safer.
Install floodlights for enhanced visibility
If your parking lot is in use after dark, it could be vital that you add some lighting. Floodlights are one of the most powerful options for lighting up larger outdoor spaces. Such lighting could prevent accidents by making pedestrians and obstacles easier to see. It could also deter crime by making it harder for thieves and vandals to operate undetected.
Carefully consider entrances and crosswalks
Carefully located entrances/exits and crosswalks can help to reduce accidents. Ideally, you want to make it easy for drivers to get in and out – avoid access onto high-speed, busy roads unless there are traffic lights to help slow down traffic. Well-placed crosswalks can, meanwhile, allow pedestrians to cross your parking lot without risk of getting hit. Clear, visible line markings are equally important in helping drivers and pedestrians navigate a parking lot safely. Working with an experienced line marking company can help ensure parking bays, directional arrows, pedestrian crossings, and accessible parking spaces remain clearly marked, improving traffic flow, supporting compliance, and reducing the risk of accidents. Road safety audits could help to highlight where entrances and crosswalks should be located.
Add speed bumps to control vehicle speed
Road accident injuries are more common when vehicles are traveling at speed. Help to slow down traffic in your parking lot by adding speed bumps. This could be particularly important in parking lots with long stretches where cars may be tempted to accelerate. Parking lot engineers can design and install these speed bumps for you.
Deploy surveillance cameras
Surveillance cameras won’t just capture video evidence of criminal activity; they could also help deter crime. Most thieves and vandals will think twice if there is a clearly visible security camera. Such cameras could also help to capture evidence of collisions and help with insurance claims or personal injury claims following accidents.
Protect structures and walkways with bollards and barriers
Bollards and barriers could be worth installing to protect buildings and walkways. While the risk of a vehicle careering onto a pavement or through a shop window is low, it can happen and can lead to major injuries – these protections could stop anyone getting hurt in these situations.
Improve parking lot drainage
Poor drainage in parking lots can lead to large puddles forming. These aren’t just unpleasant for visitors to step in, but they can also be a slip hazard to pedestrians (particularly when they freeze) and a skid hazard to vehicles. By adding slopes, holes or gravel, you can help to prevent water from pooling in your parking lot.
It’s also worth noting that drainage systems will vary vastly depending on the type of business you run. For instance, drainage solutions for kennels are not the same as drainage for a B2B office car park. The bottom line: there is more than one type of drainage system, so you want to make sure to pick the right one for your venture.
Fix potholes in good time
Potholes can become dangerous if ignored for too long. If you start to notice visible damage to your parking lot surface, consider hiring an asphalt or concrete company to patch up this damage. This won’t only prevent accidents, but it will also make your parking lot more attractive and welcoming.
