Survival tips for Boxing Week driving

Lorraine Sommerfeld

Thinking the unthinkable?

If you're considering heading out to the malls to take advantage of Boxing Week specials, there are several things you should keep in mind to keep you sane, keep your vehicle safe and protect your purchases.

In the frenzy of finding a great deal, let a little planning ahead make sure a day in a crowded parking lot won't end up costing you more than you'll save inside the store.

Park away from main entrances. Go where the crowds aren't. There will be less traffic, more parking spots and less chance of a collision. But remember that evening comes early, so make sure you're in a well-lit area. Have your keys ready as you approach your car and stay aware of your surroundings.

Keep your headlights on, even in the day. You'll maximize your visibility both to cars and to pedestrians. Use your signals – don't make people guess what you're about to do.

Maintain the spirit. Give up a parking spot. If somebody is hell-bent on claiming it, it's probably just as well they're out of their vehicle sooner, anyway.

If you're walking, keep to sidewalks and proper crossings. Don't cross diagonally; it maximizes your exposure to traffic. If you're buying something large, such as a television, arrange to pick it up at a loading dock rather than crossing a busy lot with a compromised field of vision.

Make sure your purchases are out of sight, preferably in a trunk. If your vehicle has a retractable cover for a holding area, make sure you use it.

If you deposit bags in your car to return to shop, keep an eye out for who might be watching you. If you aren't comfortable, park elsewhere.

Be vigilant for your own children, but also for others. Full arms and tired shoppers may mean little ones escape a hand or a cart. Children dart; remind your own to watch for reverse lights on cars.

While in this day and age it may seem impossible, try to avoid parking between huge SUVs and trucks. Take your time backing up, and if your visibility is compromised, get assistance.

Drive slowly. There will be another spot. There are lots of great deals. Nothing is worth personal injury or property damage, both of which can occur with very low speed collisions. Make sure seat belts are secure for all passengers at all times.

Plan your attack. Most malls have lesser-used entrances and exits, and locating them ahead of time will reduce your exposure to traffic.

I trust you will all be polite and courteous. I won't be there to see, because this is the one time of year you will never, ever see me at a mall.

And if you find you can't get out, remember: most stuff has been marked down for weeks, most stores won't let you return anything during these sales anyway, and nobody really wants a reindeer sweater for next year, even if it lights up.

Lorraine Sommerfeld's column appears Saturdays in Wheels and Mondays in the Star's Living section.

www.lorraineonline.ca

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