With the Christmas rush in full swing, collisions spike significantly in December, making shopping centre car parks one of the riskiest places to navigate.

Key findings from the latest analysis

Between October 2023 and September 2024, AAMI recorded over 22,000 car park insurance claims across Australia. December alone saw 36% more car park crashes than the monthly average.

In New South Wales, Chatswood leads the list of hotspots, followed by Miranda and Castle Hill, highlighting the challenges of navigating busy suburban shopping precincts.

Saturdays are now the worst day for prangs, with afternoons between 1 pm and 4:30 pm posing the highest risk. Shoppers hoping for a quieter experience might do better on Sundays or during early morning and late-night hours.

How drivers are staying cautious

AAMI's research suggests that drivers are adopting various strategies to stay safe:

• Driving slowly (81%) and parking in less crowded areas (47%)
• Using sensors and cameras (34%) to avoid dings

However, bad behaviour remains a concern. Over 60% of respondents reported seeing others drive too fast or double park, though few admitted to doing these things themselves.

Tips for a prang-free parking experience

AAMI Motor Claims Manager Leah James advises staying vigilant:

• Check twice: Watch for cars reversing or pulling out and always check blind spots.
• Stay alert: Pedestrians, especially near entrances, need extra caution.
• Eliminate distractions: Avoid phone use while driving in car parks.
• Light the way: Use headlights in dimly lit car parks for better visibility.

Kiama’s local impact

While Chatswood may top the list statewide, Kiama’s own shopping precincts see their fair share of car park challenges, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Locals are reminded to stay calm and cautious as visitors pour in for Christmas shopping and holiday festivities.

Avoiding the afternoon rush and shopping on quieter days could save drivers time, stress, and the inconvenience of a holiday prang.

Drive safe this Christmas season and enjoy a stress-free shopping experience!