With the increasing number of students enrolled at De Anza College each year, it is no secret that the parking lot is designed to squeeze as many cars as possible into a confined space. Unfortunately for students walking through the De Anza parking lot, the narrow gaps leave them susceptible to getting hit by careless drivers in a hurry to leave campus. Many a time have students said they were bumped on the knee by a car backing out of its cramped spot. Other students may not be so lucky and suffer injuries a lot worse than a light bump to the knee. Both student drivers and pedestrians do not pay enough attention while in the parking lot. In order for students to avoid serious injury, here are some tips on how not to be hit by a car in the De Anza College Parking lot.

1. While venturing through the De Anza parking lot, constantly look left and right. You never know when a car will pop out of nowhere, as you hurriedly make your way to your car. It is easy for students, especially when they had a long and grueling day of classes, to doze off while walking to their cars in anticipation of getting home, but making the effort to scan your surroundings can save you money on medical bills or even broken bones.

2. Do not jog or run through the parking lot. Due to traffic in the morning, students are often late to class. In order to try to make it on time before lecture starts or not miss that exam, many students dash towards class unaware of the potential risks. As a car backs out of its parking spot or its driver is in a hurry himself or herself frantically looking for a place to park, it might be too late for you or the car to stop a collision that could land you in the hospital.

3. As you walk through the parking lot, do not have headphones blasting in your ear. How are you supposed to hear a car approaching if you have music playing in both ears? Hearing a car engine running or even a break squeaking close behind you can be the difference between you spending a few weeks in intensive care or walking away safely.