Residents who live and drive in South Dakota know that they need to pay attention when they are driving to keep safe and to be sure they are abiding by the laws of the state. However, they also need to make sure they are paying attention to the rules and regulations when it comes to parking. Failure to obey those rules can or may result in fines, and having your vehicle towed. One of the first things you want to be aware of is the colored curb markings that you may see in some communities.
What do the colors mean?
If you see a curb that has been painted white, it means that you are only allowed to stop in the area for a short period of time. You can only be there as long as it takes to pick up or drop off passengers. You will not be able to leave your vehicle in this white zone.
When the curb is painted yellow, it means it is a loading zone, or that there is some other restriction on the area. There should be additional signage to let you know the rules of parking there. In most cases, you will not be able to.
Other laws and regulations to remember
South Dakota has a number of other laws regarding parking you need to know. Drivers are not allowed to park in an intersection, in a crosswalk, or on a sidewalk. If there is construction in the area and your vehicle could cause an obstruction to traffic if you park, you are not allowed to park there.
Drivers have to park at least 30 feet away from yield signs, stop signs, and traffic signals. They also have to be at least 30 feet away from a pedestrian safety zone when parking. Drivers cannot park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, or within 50 feet of a railroad crossing. When you are parking at a curb, you have to make sure you are no more than 24 inches away.
If you are parking on the same side of the road as a fire station, you have to be at least 20 feet away from the entrance. When you are parking on the other side of the road, you have to be 75 feet away. Never park on a bridge, overpass, tunnel, or underpass. Do not park on the wrong side of the street and be careful that you do not block a driveway, alley, private road, or a removed or lowered part of the curb.
Double parking is not allowed, and you never want to park on railroad tracks for obvious reasons other than the fact that it is the law. Also, when parking, make sure you are not in a handicapped space. These spaces are reserved for those who have special plates and placards. You could receive a heavy fine if you park in these areas.
When you are parking, always look for signs that indicate whether you can park there or not.
