B.C. Drivers Stressed And Nervous Navigating Busy Parking Lots

A new ICBC survey suggests the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can really stress people out in the parking lots.

ICBC says the survey, conducted by Ipsos, found 51% of drivers feel more stressed when navigating a busy parking lot compared to driving on the open road.

25% said they’re either extremely or very nervous driving in a parking lot during busier times.

December winter weather can play a big factor on drivers’ nerves as well. 37% of respondents said they get extremely or very nervous when driving in an outdoor parking lot in heavy rain or snowy conditions and this grows to 42% when it’s also dark.

Most drivers surveyed (seven out of 10) have been in or witnessed a collision or near collision in a parking lot, yet 78% of respondents believe the risk of crashes in a parking lot is only low to moderate.

In fact, 33% of all crashes in B.C. last year occurred in parking lots or involved parked vehicles.

“We all know December is a busy month in parking lots and we’re here to offer tips and guidance to help keep pedestrians, children and drivers safe this holiday season,” said Jerry Boal, ICBC driver licensing office manager.

“Managing your speed, being extra cautious and reversing into your parking spot whenever possible are not only safe choices, these actions can go a long way to reducing your stress and nerves when behind the wheel.”

Last December, more than 7,500 collisions occurred in parking lots, making up 31% of all crashes throughout the month; nearly 86,000 crashes happen annually on average in B.C.

ICBC says one of the safest things to do while parking is backing into your spot.

However, only 47% of drivers surveyed said they do so.

For more information on the survey, visit ICBC.