Many people park their cars in the driveway out of habit, convenience, or necessity. But are there any risks to keeping your car out in the open? If you have a garage but aren’t utilizing it for parking, you may want to reconsider. Today we will discuss the dangers of parking in the driveway and the perks of parking in the garage. 

Risks of Parking in the Driveway 

Theft and vandalism — Vehicles parked in driveways are often more accessible to thieves than those in garages. If you park in the driveway, you may experience break-ins, catalytic converter thefts, or even complete vehicle thefts. You also risk vandalism, such as keying or broken windows. Thieves may also target homes with cars in the driveway because they assume they can easily access garage door openers or key fobs left in cars. 

Weather damage — Exposure to sunlight can fade paint and damage the interior of your car. Hail can cause dents and other damage, and rain can lead to rusting over time. Harsh sunlight and weather conditions can also quickly break down the plastic and rubber parts of your car. 

Accidental damage — By parking in the driveway, you open yourself up to accidents. Other drivers or pedestrians may accidentally hit your car, or kids playing nearby may dent or scratch the vehicle. You may also experience damage from falling tree branches, debris, or objects. 

Legal and Insurance Issues — Some homeowner associations (HOAs) have rules against driveway parking, and insurance companies may have different policies for vehicles parked outside. You may also be liable if your car rolls out of the driveway and causes damage.

Pest infestations — Rodents can nest in parked cars, chewing on wires and insulation. Insects can also enter your car and cause problems. If you park in the driveway, you need to make sure to keep your vehicle clean, especially in the cool temperatures as animals will seek warmth under the hood of your car. 

Blindzones — Every week at least 110 children are injured or killed because a driver didn’t see them behind or in front of the car. While this scenario is possible with a car parked in the garage, the risk is higher with a car parked in the driveway, as there is less time to notice a child. Don’t let children play in the driveway and make sure to teach them the danger of cars and blindzones.

Blocked emergency access — If you are parked in the driveway, you could block emergency vehicles from entering your property during a crisis. If you need to park in the driveway, make sure you have room for any emergency personnel. 

Benefits of Parking in the Garage

Enhanced security  — Parking in the garage reduces the risk of theft and vandalism by keeping your car out of sight from criminals. Protects against catalytic converter theft, which is common in driveway parking.

Protection from weather — Parking in the garage shields your car from sun damage, preventing paint fading, and protects against rain, snow, hail, and ice accumulation. Keeping your car in the garage also keeps tires from premature wear due to temperature fluctuations and helps prevent rust and corrosion.

Lower insurance costs — Some insurance companies offer lower premiums for cars parked in garages due to reduced risks. You also protect yourself from the chance of claims related to theft, vandalism, or weather damage.

Convenience and comfort  — It is also convenient to keep your car in the garage as you don’t have to deal with the weather. For example, you can step into your car without getting wet in the rain. Your AC/heat will also work better if your car is warmer, and you can easily load/unload groceries and other items from the garage.

Pest and rodent protection  — While garages can attract pests, they offer better control compared to open driveways. Garages also keep small animals from nesting in your engine bay.

Home value and aesthetic appeal — A clutter-free driveway improves curb appeal, and protecting your car can help maintain its resale value.

Protect Your Car and Yourself

If you have a garage, it is better to utilize it for parking and storage rather than just aa a storage space. You can protect your car, save money, and benefit yourself with garage parking. While it may seem more convenient now to park in the driveway, parking in the garage will help you in the long run when it comes to the value of your car. If you need help organizing, so you can park your car in your garage, give us a call.