Ohio parking laws: understanding the basics
Drivers located in Ohio need to make sure they know and understand the laws and regulations for parking. Even if you know all of the rules of driving and being on the road, it is just as important to make sure you know where you can and cannot park.
If you park in the wrong place, you can expect to get a citation and a fine. In some cases, the authorities may even tow your vehicle to the impound lot. You do not want to spend money on tickets and getting your car out of impound, so make sure you keep all of the following rules in mind.
Keep these parking laws in mind
When you park your vehicle, it should always be facing the direction of traffic, and it should be on the right side of the road. The vehicle should be parallel to the side of the road or curb, and it needs to be within 12 inches of it. In some locations, angled parking may be permitted.
You cannot park on a sidewalk, within an intersection, or within 10 feet of a fire hydrant. Do not park on a crosswalk, and make sure you are at least 20 feet away from a crosswalk or intersection when parking. You cannot park in front of a public or private driveway either.
Do not park closer than 30 feet from a flashing beacon, traffic signal, or stop sign. You are not allowed to park between safety zones and the adjacent curb nor within 30 feet of points on the curb immediately opposite the ends of a safety zone, unless the traffic authority indicates a different length with signs or markings.
When parking near a railroad crossing, you need to be at least 50 feet away from the nearest rail. Drivers are not allowed to park on a highway bridge, in a highway tunnel, or alongside vehicles that are parked or stopped at the edge or the street or the curb. This is called double parking, and it is dangerous, not to mention it will slow down traffic.
You should never park closer than one foot to another vehicle. You can’t park on the roadway part of thruways, expressways, or freeways. Always pay attention to the signs as well, which will often indicate where you can and cannot park your vehicle.
You have to respect handicapped parking spaces. If you do not have special plates or a placard that allows you to park in those spots legally, do not park there. People with disabilities actually need those spots, and law enforcement officers will likely ticket your vehicle, and they may have it towed.
One of the other things to remember is that the actual laws may vary somewhat between different towns and cities. It’s a good idea to check any laws in your location that may differ a bit from the state regulations. This will ensure you do not get a ticket that would be easily avoidable.
