Parking in high-population areas like New York City is sometimes challenging as spaces may be limited, metered, or hard to access. Following traffic rules and maintaining courtesy support traffic flow and streamline access to parking. Booking designated spaces in parking garages managed by City Parking also helps verify that you have a place to park. Here are some parking dos and don’ts for drivers:
Follow Traffic Rules
The rules for parking garages and lots are often similar to those found on the road. Drivers should obey traffic signs, including those that signal stop, one-way, and yield. Garages are sometimes designed for one-way traffic to reduce congestion and help drivers navigate in and out of spaces quickly. Some parking lots support two-way traffic. If directional arrows are not posted, review the space’s angle. Parking spaces should angle toward oncoming traffic. When parking on the street, drivers should always park in the direction of traffic flow.
To maintain traffic flow, drivers exiting a parking space should yield to oncoming traffic. Obeying posted speed limits for garages and lots and granting pedestrians the right of way supports safety in high-traffic areas. Check overhead clearance restrictions before parking to protect your vehicle and reduce delays. Parking applications allow drivers to review a garage’s vehicle size restrictions in advance and book a space suited to their needs.
Avoid Parking Illegally
Whether parking on the street or in a garage, local or state laws may enforce parking restrictions. In New York City, these laws include:
- Double parking is always illegal, even if the vehicle is occupied.
- Alternate side parking (ASP) facilitates street cleaning and dictates which side of the street is open for parking.
- Drivers cannot park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
- Parking is allowed at T intersections if there are no traffic signals, crosswalks, or all-way stop signs.
- When school is in recess, you can park in a school zone. For schools that schedule summer sessions or teacher meetings, parking restrictions remain in effect on those days.
When multiple parking signs are posted in a single area, such as no stopping, standing, or parking, the most restrictive sign is the one in effect. Drivers who park illegally may be ticketed or towed. On major legal holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, some restrictions are suspended. Since many parking laws are designed for street spaces where safety and congestion issues are higher, garage parking often faces fewer restrictions. This makes it easy to find a space regardless of day, time, or access limitations.
Be Courteous
Garages located near key tourist attractions, such as Broadway or Rockefeller Center, or business districts like Wall Street, tend to be busy. Following safe and courteous parking practices helps avoid accidents. Remain aware of your surroundings by staying alert for pedestrians, reversing cars, and directional signage. This helps prevent collisions or sudden braking.
Using turn signals when preparing to enter a parking space or a new lane notifies other drivers of your intentions when slowing or stopping in a garage’s thoroughfare. Unless specific spaces are reserved, parking is usually first-come, first-served. Available spaces should be given to drivers who arrived before you, unless the space does not align with the direction they are driving. When parking, keep your vehicle within the designated lines. Taking up multiple spaces or crossing the lines prevents others from parking, and it also creates a possibility for minor bumps or scrapes to occur as doors are opened.
Review Parking Conditions
The conditions of a parking lot, garage, or local area can impact your parking experience or vehicle safety. Properly lit garages may help to reduce vandalism. Removing valuable items like electronics and wallets from your vehicle helps prevent theft. Prioritize well-maintained garages with security systems or parking attendants for additional protection. Some street spaces may have parking hazards, such as steep slopes, so you should make sure the parking brake is engaged properly to prevent your vehicle from rolling. Covered garages feature level spaces and protect your car from adverse weather conditions, including rain, direct sun, and snow.
Find Parking Garages Today
New York City drivers face many challenges, but reviewing restrictions and conditions in advance helps you find suitable parking. Booking garage spots in advance also helps verify that you can park on arrival without circling the block or navigating street parking laws. City Parking manages and maintains garages throughout the city, making it easy to find a space near your destination. Contact us today to reserve hourly or monthly parking.