The Typochondriac: Parking, nine to five

In this space on May 11 I opined “Beware the employee/applicant who backs his vehicle into its parking space: His mind is on going home.” In compliance with a new diktat from EEOC–that’s Equal Elucidation Opportunity Commitment–the editors are pleased to print this rebuttal from reader Alan Prochoroff:

“As a long-time ‘backer-inner,’ I must disagree with your Human Resources ‘Tip’ of the Week in the May 11 RR. Backing in is actually SAFER than pulling in. Here’s why: There is less traffic (and an empty stall) when you arrive, so there is relatively less danger of an accident occurring as you back in. However, there can be cars moving everywhere when you leave; they can be hard to spot when backing out (but traffic can be more easily spotted as you drive forward out of the parking space). I was told this by the National Safety Council more than 20 years ago, when the group suggested backing in/pulling through spaces as a way to reduce accidents in parking lots–where most accidents occur.”

Perfectly perfect parker Prochoroff’s protest is posted. Of course, if you arrive early enough and stay late enough . . . .