How to Improve Parking Lot Safety
Clear signage, pavement markings, parking blocks, and speed bumps help guide drivers, control traffic flow, and maintain safer driving speeds.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 20% of all traffic accidents occur in parking lots. These accidents account for more than 60,000 injuries each year. So, how can we improve safety in parking lots? Clear signage, pavement markings, sturdy parking blocks, and speed bumps are among the most common ways to provide guidance to drivers, control traffic flow, and maintain safe driving speeds.
Parking Blocks
Traffic Safety Store offers several styles of recycled rubber and recycled plastic parking blocks that are ideal for parking lots. Installing parking blocks provides several safety benefits:- Organizes parking and maximizes available space
- Prevents drivers from pulling through spaces where they may not be seen by a driver entering the open space
- Keeps ADA-accessible parking spaces clear
- Stops vehicles from overshooting parking spaces, helping protect pedestrians on sidewalks and designated walkways
Portable Parking Lot Sign Stands
Portable sign stands are ideal for parking lots because they can be moved to high-traffic areas or areas of concern as needed. We offer two styles: stands with bases that can be filled with sand or water, and stands with heavy 60-pound rubber bases.- Two available heights: 60 or 72 inches
- Fillable bases available in black or yellow
- Roll-A-Post sign stand with a 72-inch post
- Rubber-base sign stand with a 72-inch post
Parking Lot Signs
Parking lots need clear, highly visible signs to control traffic flow and reduce driver confusion. Without proper signage, drivers may make up their own rules, which can result in accidents. Common types of parking lot signs include:- Directional: Stop, Do Not Enter, One Way, and Wrong Way
- Critical parking zones: No Parking, Reserved Parking, Visitor Parking, and Tow Away
- Speed limits: 5 mph and 10 mph are the most common in parking lots
Pedestrian Crosswalk Barricades
“Stop for Pedestrians” and “Yield to Pedestrians” crosswalk barricades are essential for parking lot safety. These barricades physically guide pedestrians toward designated walking areas while providing a strong visual warning for drivers. Designed with reflective sheeting and constructed to rebound after vehicle impacts, these barricades are an important addition to any parking lot.- Can be installed with bolts or a 35-pound rubber base
- Double-sided construction with reflective sheeting
Speed Bumps
Speed bumps are one of the best ways to maintain safe driving speeds in parking lots. Choosing the right installation locations can help maximize their safety benefits:- Pedestrian crosswalks: Installing speed bumps on each side prompts drivers to slow down and stay alert where pedestrians are most active.
- Entrance and exit lanes: Slowing vehicles as they transition from higher-speed public roads to lower-speed parking lots can reduce accidents.
- Storefronts and building entrances: Areas directly in front of main doors often have a high flow of pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
- Long, straight stretches of pavement: Open areas naturally encourage drivers to accelerate. Installing speed bumps at regular intervals breaks up these stretches.