As the beginning of the year unfolds, many new Titan drivers are parking on campus for the first time. While this is a great privilege given to upperclassmen, you must know these basic rules of parking lot etiquette to keep your experience as uneventful as possible.
Don’t gather: Big crowds in the parking lot can block roads and hold up traffic. To avoid being honked at by irritated drivers, find a better place to catch up with your friends. There are much cooler hang-out spots, I promise.
Stay in the lines: I understand that parking isn’t everyone’s forte, but there’s no shame in backing out and trying again. You don’t want your car to end up on a bad parking Instagram page, and neat parking will make dismissal easier for everyone.
Pick up your trash: This might seem like common sense, but based on the trash constantly left in the lots after dismissal, students obviously need a reminder. Our parking lots have trash cans nearby, and the extra five steps are worth it to keep the lots clean.
Keep your eyes on the road: Nothing’s worse than being stuck behind a driver who’s too busy on their phone to realize that traffic is moving. The best way to avoid being that person is simple: put your phone down and focus on what’s in front of you.
Follow the administration’s directions: As someone who always seems to get stopped by Mr. Small in the afternoon on my way out of the third lot, I know that it’s frustrating if you have somewhere to be or homework to get started on. But, it’ll make dismissal safer and more efficient if you follow their directions.
Slow down: Understandably, someone might get to campus late or be in a rush to get home, but going 30 miles per hour in the parking lot isn’t the solution to make up for lost time. Everyone wants to get out of school as soon as possible, but a potential accident or injury to other students isn’t worth it.
As you’re navigating the parking lots, keep these pointers in mind and you should have a safe and smooth ride throughout the school year.
