Driver's dashcam captures pedestrian's infuriating car park move: 'Massive fail'
The simple yet frustrating move can attract a fine of $78, and is illegal in all Australian states and territories.
A car park scene experienced by a shocked driver has infuriated Aussies after a woman was caught on dashcam seemingly reserving an empty space by standing in it. Her position prevented the incoming driver from turning in and using the space, forcing him to eventually drive away.
"Just a Karen trying to reserve the spot for her husband," the Newcastle local claimed online, sharing the footage captured from his vehicle. The car park fiasco played out in Newcastle, a harbour city in New South Wales, on Thursday before being shared on social media shortly after.
The video shows the vehicle turning into the car park in Jesmond before approaching the empty space. There doesn't appear to be another free spot in view. But he's forced to stop when he notices an elderly woman standing in the way. The pedestrian is seen in the space waving to the driver and pointing to someone or something off-camera.
According to the poster, she was likely indicating that her husband would soon be using the empty space. She's then seen shaking her head while gesturing 'no' with her hand. The driver is stopped for a few short seconds before eventually driving off in search of another free space to park.
Pedestrian's car park act can attract $78 fine
While there doesn't appear to be a specific road rule prohibiting pedestrians from reserving a car park by standing in it, obstructing the path of any vehicle is considered an offence across all Australian states and territories.
According to road rule 236 in the Australian Road Rules, a model for most state's road legislation, pedestrians "must not cause a traffic hazard by moving into the path of a driver". Additionally, pedestrians "must not unreasonably obstruct the path of any driver".
But it can be tricky to enforce in private car parks.
Public areas, however, such as side streets, are governed by state and territory parking legislation, therefore fines can easily be issued. In NSW, fines of $78 apply.
Aussies erupt over inconsiderate car park etiquette
The frustrating scenario struck a nerve with other Aussies who were quick to point out it's not okay to reserve a space, referring to car park etiquette.
"It's a massive fail, please tell me you did not let her get away with it! Just start driving in, she'll move," one person suggested. "What a Karen, I hope you drove in," another said.
"I can’t believe anyone thinks this is okay. Although I have a couple of older family members who would do this," a third person shared.
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