When installing or refitting parking lots for businesses, private communities, public institutions, or commercial establishments, safety is paramount. Parking lots that do not meet these criteria are often difficult to see and understand. Property managers face liability they should have avoided, especially in Florida, where new regulations are constantly being enacted to regulate parking space sizes, clearances, ADA compliance, and many other factors. Parking lots can have problems in three main areas: traffic control, pavement markings, and accessibility. If you are looking for the most trustworthy company for Parking Lot Liability Maintenance services try Atlantic Southern Paving!
Pavement markings
Safety is paramount for pedestrians, drivers, employees, and everyone who comes onto the property. For pedestrians, walkways should be marked with hatching (diagonal striping) so that approaching cars are alert and can yield safely. You can also use hatching to identify hazards or obstructions that could pose a risk to pedestrians and drivers. It is highly recommended to keep line paint clean and free from debris.
Twelve feet is the minimum width for a 2-way aisle. The location of obstructions like poles or walls can affect the parking space widths and clearance requirements. Large fines can be imposed for inadequate laneway access for emergency vehicles. Access lanes for firetrucks must be clearly marked and large enough to accommodate emergency vehicles. The lanes should be clearly marked and have enough space for traffic to pass. So that drivers are aware of what they need to do, signage and markings should be as close as possible to the public road. It is important to place the sign in a safe location. Signs that are easily understood and visible will reduce or eliminate liability.
Traffic Markings
Speed issues are common in high-volume traffic areas and parking lots. The large arrows placed on the pavement and walls of underground garages can be used to control speed and direct traffic movement. For optimal visibility, rubber or plastic speed bumps may be fitted with reflective colors. These speed bumps can be used to slow cars in areas with high pedestrian traffic. They also help minimize injuries and vehicle damage from pedestrian/vehicle contact. Speed bumps are not only useful for calming traffic but also protect temporary power cables and water hoses. Rubber curbs can be installed in place of concrete curbs to increase the safety of parking areas. These durable, robust rubber curbs are brightly reflective and durable. They sit lower than the ground to prevent bumper contact and stop the wheels from contacting a sidewalk or wall. They are not as susceptible to cracking, chipping or requiring paint as traditional concrete curbs.
Accessibility
Parking facilities must be accessible to people with disabilities. According to the Social Security Administration, one out of seven Americans has some form of disability. The requirements for handicapped parking stalls will increase as this number increases. Also, guidelines regarding the proximity of buildings to them will become more stringent. These guidelines can lead to fines or penalties if you fail to comply. To meet the new regulations, handicapped parking stalls should be wider. Most properties have taken extra measures to make sure that there is an accessible walkway between handicapped spaces. This proactive approach will ensure compliance with all regulations and provide additional safety for those who need extra space to maneuver modified vehicles or support equipment. To ensure that drivers with permits are aware of the spaces reserved for them, handicapped stall markings must be clear and visible.
