You may not park:
Answers
On a hill.
In a parking lot.
On a crosswalk or in a marked bicycle lane.
Within 12 inches of the right side of the road.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: On a crosswalk or in a marked bicycle lane.
Explanation:
Parking laws are designed to ensure the safety and convenience of all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. The rules prohibit parking in certain areas to prevent obstructing traffic, interfering with pedestrian movements, and hindering cyclists from using designated lanes. Here’s a detailed explanation of why parking is restricted in these areas:
- Crosswalks: Crosswalks are designated areas on the road where pedestrians are meant to cross safely. Parking on a crosswalk can obstruct pedestrian traffic, forcing pedestrians to walk around the vehicle, which increases the risk of accidents. Additionally, it can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians trying to cross, particularly at intersections or in busy areas. This is why parking on crosswalks is prohibited in many places.
- Marked Bicycle Lanes: Bicycle lanes are designated spaces on the road for cyclists to travel safely, often separated from vehicle lanes. Parking in these lanes forces cyclists to either swerve into traffic, risking their safety, or to stop and find a way around the obstacle. A cyclist’s ability to navigate the road safely is significantly compromised if vehicle parking blocks the bike lane. Thus, parking in a marked bicycle lane is illegal to protect cyclists.
Other listed options, such as parking on a hill or within 12 inches of the right side of the road, are also regulated but typically don’t present the same immediate dangers to pedestrians or cyclists. Parking on a hill can increase the likelihood of a vehicle rolling away, and parking too close to the curb can obstruct traffic flow. However, parking in crosswalks or bike lanes poses direct, immediate risks to public safety, making it the most critical area to avoid.