What common mistake leads to accidents when leaving a parking space?

When leaving a parking space, driver carelessness and the failure to look over their shoulder are significant contributors to accidents. This action is crucial because, in many parking situations, the driver's view can be obstructed by vehicles or other objects in the area. Not turning to check blind spots can lead to a lack of awareness of pedestrians, cyclists, and approaching vehicles.

By neglecting to perform a shoulder check, drivers might pull out into oncoming traffic or accidentally back into someone behind them, resulting in collisions. Properly checking all surroundings before maneuvering out of a parking space is essential for ensuring safety. This practice helps maintain the awareness needed to navigate potentially hazardous situations safely.