Two rental store employees unloaded the required equipment at the loading dock. They proceeded to park the box truck before going inside to set up as per the customer’s request. The rental store’s driver carefully backed the box truck into a spot while the other employee spotted him to make it easier to safely exit the busy parking area later.

After setup was complete, the two employees returned to the box truck. They went through their checklist and got ready to leave. The driver noticed another truck was getting ready to back away from the loading dock. The rental store driver decided to wait so there was no chance the other driver would back into him. Finally, the way seemed clear.

The rental store driver started to carefully pull out of the parking spot. A nearby pedestrian suddenly started motioning for the box truck to stop. It turns out the driver of the vehicle parked next to the box truck had opened their door at some point while the rental store employees were waiting for the way to clear. The rental store box truck’s side mirror caught the other vehicle’s door as it pulled away, causing a bit of damage. The incident was reported to the rental store’s insurance provider who will investigate and proceed as warranted.

Some days, it feels like you can’t win no matter how careful you are. Part of driving defensively is being prepared. Be sure to check that nothing has changed before pulling out of a parking space. Likewise, don’t assume that the vehicle next to you will remain stationary. Be alert.