A good parking space is a blessing, but you might feel your neighbor’s wrath if you don’t practice proper apartment parking etiquette. Whether you have a garage, a lot or even your own private space, it’s important to always honor the right of way and follow these ten commandments of parking etiquette.
The Commandments
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- Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s parking space. If you have designated parking, it’s a no-brainer to park only in your own space and to remind guests to use specified guest parking.
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- Honor thy apartment community’s posted speed limit. Slow down and try not to terrify your neighbors. You have to see them every day.
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- Thou shalt not lie about the ding you put in that guy’s bumper. If you accidentally hit your apartment neighbor’s car, leave a note. You’ll sleep better at night.
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- Uphold your neighbor’s right to carry groceries. Don’t forget that you’re parking in a place where people unload groceries, small children and pets. Keep your car in the lines and give them plenty of room to open their car doors.
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- Do to other drivers as they do unto you. The bottom line is to be nice. If someone waves to you, wave back.
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- But, thou shalt not respond discourteously to unfriendly drivers. Remember, they know where you live.
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- Respect the blind spot. Don’t come screaming around the corners in your parking garage or parking lot. One day there will be a blind spot (and an insurance claim) with your name on it.
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- Never take your neighbor’s name in vain. Parking garages can echo and sometimes walls can be thin — your neighbors can hear everything.
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- Be slow to anger. So your neighbors had a party and their friends parked in your space. If it’s the first time this has happened, let it go. If it’s the 13th time, feel free to call the apartment manager or leave a friendly note.
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- Thou shalt always use the parking brake when parked on an incline. Because that’s how safe apartment parkers (don’t) roll. (We really mean it.)