New policy promotes safety
New towing policies have already created safer parking lots.
Finding a parking space seems to at times be a struggle. Often, students resort to not only creating spaces but also possibly creating dangerous conditions. In order to help promote safety and make parking lots more easily accessible for university and emergency vehicles, LUPD has instated a new towing policy.
“In many lots on campus, many cars were parking in places that were not designed or marked for parking,” LUPD chief of police Col. Richard Hinkley said. “By doing this, it created narrow roadways, limited sight at corners and interfered with both university business and emergency access.”
On Monday, March 7, LUPD began enforcing the policy. As stated in an announcement issued by LUPD, any car that is not parked in a marked parking space, between two white lines, will be subject to towing — however, there is an exception for those parked in a gravel lot.
According to Hinkley, safety is the main reason why the rules and guidelines put into place should be followed.
“We have many accidents weekly in the parking lots,” Hinkley said.
Senior Jennifer Wheeler has had her share of frustration with parking and appreciates the new policy.
“I appreciate it because it would be frustrating to drive through the Reber Thomas parking lot,” Wheeler said. “There were cars parked in random spots making it difficult to safely travel up and down the aisles.”
This policy will be enforced at all times. According to LUPD, there will not be any warning before a car is towed. If a car is towed, there are a few steps to take.
“First, call Liberty University Police at 434-592-7641 to confirm that the car was towed and by what tow company,” Hinkley said. “Then, call the tow company to arrange payment and pick up.”
According to Hinkley, the best times to find spaces are before 9 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m. David’s Place (PM03), Doc’s Diner (PE03) and PM18, by Resident Hall Main 33, often have the most open spaces.
“These lots have space available at all times,” Hinkley said. “It is rare to see any of them full.”
Although the new policy has proven successful in certain areas, according to Hinkley, it is too early to tell if the new policy will reduce the number of accidents.
“Since this was instituted, the problems with access, sight distances and interference with business and emergency access have been almost eliminated,” Hinkley said.
For more information about parking, visit the LUPD website, which can be found through the Splash page.