ORLANDO, Fla. – Parking lots might appear as one of the most ordinary locations you frequent, yet they are also areas where minor errors and lack of attention can escalate into significant issues.

Whether you’re arriving at your neighborhood grocery store, maneuvering through a busy mall lot, or simply picking up takeout, it’s easy to ignore the concealed hazards around us.

In today’s Trooper Steve On Patrol stream, we’re focusing on situational awareness and the traffic rules relevant to parking areas. We’ll discuss the small actions that can significantly impact your safety and that of those nearby.

Think about it:

• Ever felt uneasy about someone hanging around your car? 

• Struggled to see past that giant SUV parked next to you when backing out? 

• Wondered who has the right of way at those confusing lot intersections? 

These aren’t just annoyances — they’re real safety concerns. Today, we’ll break down what you should be paying attention to every time you park, shop or load up your trunk.

We’ll cover:

• Best practices for backing out safely 

• Staying alert for pedestrians and carts 

• Recognizing warning signs that “something just isn’t right” 

• Navigating crowded or poorly marked lanes 

• Avoiding fender benders and misunderstandings 

Parking lots are technically part of the road — and the same rules of awareness apply. But there’s an extra layer of caution required because of the mix of cars, pedestrians, and distractions.

Let’s make sure your next shopping trip ends with you getting home safely, not with an crash or an uncomfortable encounter.

[WATCH! Trooper Steve gives must-know tips for driving in heavy, slow traffic]