Parking Garages -- Safe Public Parking Tips And Tricks

Public parking and parking garages usually are located in some of the most convenient places and make it a breeze to park, shop, and enjoy all the amenities a large city has to offer. However, navigating all of the parking structures and parking garages Chicago, New York, Miami, and other large cities have to offer can take some know-how if you want to remain accident free. Follow these simple hints to make you and your car's stay in the big city enjoyable and headache free.

Clean Your Car

When leaving your car unattended, the smartest thing you can do is make sure any and all valuables are out of sight, and preferably out of you car. While garages and parking structures are usually safe, it is always better to exercise caution rather than be sorry later. Leaving your belongings and valuables visible is simply inviting trouble in any circumstance.

If you do not invite people to break into your car by leaving valuables, phones, CDs, or stereo equipment lying around, the odds are no one will break in. If you have limitations as to what you can safely carry after you exit your car, be sure to place your valuables under the seat or in the trunk where someone walking by will not see them.

Don't Double Park

High demand for parking spots in most city garages make for a zero tolerance policy concerning double parking. It doesn't matter what the reason may be -- you have a really nice car, will only be gone for a minute, or just overshot your parking spot -- double parking will earn you a ticket, some door dings, or a nice trip to the city's impound lot.

If you do double park, even just a little over the line, you can expect a citation (if you're caught) or a door ding. At worst, your car may be impounded by the city or another vehicle may scrape up your paintjob trying to squeeze in next to you. The short amount of time you may save by double parking will not be worth the time it may take to track down where your car was impounded -- not to mention the expense of the towing charge, impound fees and any fines you may have gathered along the way.

Avoiding Bumps, Scrapes, And Lawsuits

When looking for a parking spot in one of the city's garages, proceed with caution. Parking garages and parking structures are filled with narrow winding lanes, tight turns, many other vehicles, and pedestrians.

When navigating a parking garage, keep your parking lights on (to increase your visibility), exercise caution (look for cars backing up), and don't hold up traffic waiting for a space if it is busy. It boils down to basically using common sense.

Research Parking Garages

Because there are so many garages and parking structures in most large cities, there are many deals to be found. A garage a few blocks away from your destination may be cheaper than the one across the street. You may also have the added benefit of not only saving some money but having the opportunity to gain a little exercise as well.

It also may be cheaper to park in the early afternoon or late evening rather than in the morning or late afternoon (when people getting to or returning from work). If you do your research and aren't afraid to walk a bit, you may find a great deal on parking anywhere!

Parking garages in Chicago, Los Angeles or any large city provide a great way to safely leave your vehicle while you conduct your business. Just remember to be alert, store your valuables securely or out of sight and use common sense while entering and leaving the garage and you'll have a safe trip and be accident free.

Christine O'Kelly is an author for the experts on Chicago public parking, Chicago Parking Map. They offer interactive maps, along with tips, tricks, and information to help make navigating parking garages Chicago easier.