Double-parking a selfish act

After working in the city for more than a decade, I have identified four types of motorists, whom I find obnoxious, when they double-park.

Not only do they place their own convenience above everyone else’s, they also remain unfazed by the inconvenience they cause.

Before I proceed any further, let me be clear that this article does not condone double- parking, which is illegal and subject to fines.

In severe cases, offenders can face a fine of up to RM5,000, a minimum jail term of 12 months, or both, as stipulated under Section 48(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

Double-parking is a pervasive issue in major cities worldwide.

It is understandable that circling around a commercial area multiple times in search of a parking spot can be frustrating, hence that is why some drivers choose to double-park in front of the shops they are visiting.

If one must double-park, at the very least be aware of any vehicles you may be blocking and be mindful of other people’s needs.

I have encountered numerous such drivers who, after causing inconvenience, fail to offer even a simple apology.

This brings us to the first type – those who do not apologise.

Many merely shuffle to their cars with their heads down, as if searching for coins on the pavement, and drive away unapologetically.

For me, a simple, apologetic gesture would suffice to overlook the act of double- parking.

However, some motorists guilty of inconveniencing others, ignore the driver who is trapped in the parking bay and honking to call for attention.

The second type is motorists who fail to leave a contact number on their dashboard.

This leads to relentless honking, disrupting the neighbourhood or commercial area.

At the very least, those double-parking should have the decency to leave a contact number to facilitate communication.

But you know what is more frustrating?

The third type – those who leave a contact number but do not answer their phones.

What is the point of leaving a number if it goes unanswered?

Such behaviour reveals an unbelievable level of entitlement, self-centredness and disregard for the needs of others.

Finally, the fourth type which is the most infuriating – those who double-park when there are empty parking bays nearby.

These individuals are the epitome of the obnoxious double-parking motorist.

I recently encountered one such person when doing my groceries at a local store in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur.

My car that was in a designated parking bay was blocked by a double-parked vehicle.

What baffled me the most was that he double-parked behind my car when the parking spot next to me was empty.

The driver, unperturbed, continued sorting his groceries despite my attempts to call his attention to the situation by honking.

Only after honking insistently did he reluctantly move.

Double-parking is unacceptable and should not be tolerated.

It causes unnecessary inconvenience for others and is simply selfish.

We, as Malaysians who live in unity, must strive for greater consideration and respect towards all road users to ensure a smoother and more respectful driving experience.