Navigating the roads in Washington entails more than just understanding the rules of driving. Not only is driving safe to avoid a car accident in Seattle important, equally critical are the parking regulations that keep our streets orderly and safe. To avoid getting a ticket or having your car towed, keep the following rules in mind while parking your car in Washington state.
Understanding Your Basic Responsibilities as a Driver
Drivers in Washington have the duty to ensure their parked vehicles are not posing a threat to other road users. This means that when parking, vehicles should be placed in such a way that they do not obstruct traffic flow and are easily visible from both directions. It’s essential to always be aware of your surroundings and avoid parking in spots that may heighten the risk of a collision, such as blind curves.
Guidelines for Proper Parking in Washington
When parking your car in Washington, it is crucial to place your vehicle in designated parking zones whenever they are available. Pay attention to the color painted on the curbs; white-painted curbs indicate short stops only. Yellow or red curbs denote loading zones or other parking restrictions. Make sure to park next to an unpainted curb, a parking space, or an area where you have the proper permits.
You should also keep the following guidelines in mind to avoid potential penalties:
Always park on the right side unless on a one-way street.
Ensure your wheels are no more than 12 inches from the curb.
Avoid parking at intersections, crosswalks, and sidewalks.
Never park on bridges, overpasses, tunnels, or underpasses.
Double parking is illegal, as is parking in handicapped spaces.
Maintain a 30-foot distance from traffic signals, yield or stop signs, and 20 feet from a pedestrian safety zone.
Park at least 15 feet away from fire hydrants and 50 feet from railroad crossings.
If parking near a fire station, stay 20 feet away if on the same side and 75 feet if on the opposite side.
Avoid parking within 5 feet of driveways, alleys, private roads, or curb cuts.
Potential Penalties for Parking Violations
If you overlook these rules, it is important to remember that law enforcement won’t. Parking in unauthorized areas can result in hefty fines, depending on the location. This behavior could also lead to your vehicle being towed. It is always in your best interests to be aware of the rules of the road and follow them to the best of your ability.
Injured in a Parking Lot Accident? Contact a Redmond Personal Injury Attorney
Accidents can happen, even in parking scenarios. Perhaps you were backing out of a space and another driver unexpectedly sped through, or maybe a poorly marked driveway led to an unfortunate collision. Parking lot accidents, though often perceived as minor, can lead to significant injuries and financial burdens.
If you’ve been injured due to a parking-related incident or believe that a parking rule violation contributed to your injury, it’s important to seek legal advice right away. A Seattle personal injury attorney can evaluate your situation, help you understand your legal rights, and guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit or insurance claim.
After your accident, schedule a free consultation with a Redmond car accident lawyer right away. Your attorney will assess the available evidence and help you take your first steps toward the justice and compensation that you deserve.
