Turning Specs 1

[bank]

I am attempting to lay out a parking lot in dimensions that don't agree with local codes (which haven't changed since 1985). Cars have evolved, and are much more maneuverable than they were in 1985. I believe cars are capable of negotiating tighter curves and no longer require 9 ft by 19 ft parking stalls. Does anyone know of a source where I can get up-to-date information such as minimum turning radii for full sized cars?

 

[CarlB]

You should be able to get that from the manufacturer, I've seen it at websites under vehicle specs. I doubt the standars AASHTO design turning radius for passenger car has been reduced. Some cars may be available that are more manuverable, but many are not -large SUV's, Hummers, long bed 4-wheel drive pickups, etc. Some authorities allow a portion of a parking lot be devoted to compact cars with smaller stall dimensions. We have some clients in Alaska who recognize the occasional truck with snow plow and trailer hitch and they provide lots/stalls larger than the code minimums.

 

[jdonville]

bank,

Just because recent model cars may have a tighter turning circle doesn't mean that the older cars are leaving the traffic mix anytime soon...

Have you driven in a major US city recently? How many cars well past their prime were still on the road - especially in poorer areas? CarlB also has a vey good point regarding recent-model vehicles with larger-than-normal dimensions and wheelbases.

Jeff

 

[MPENN]

I have never heard somebody complain, "These parking stalls are too large, I wish they were made smaller."

Architectural Graphic Standards has some good dimentional information for parking areas. If your spaces are too narrow the new car owner will straddle the line and take up two spaces.

Private for profit parking lots that employ a car jockey may use a 7.5' to 8' stall spacing. Lot layouts that I favor are 9.0' x 18', however, I have designed many lots using an 8.5' stall.

 

[TerryScan]

I am in a local that calls for 10'x20' space, but allows for a percentage of compact 9'x18' spaces. I did a quick study myself using current data from an SUV and a mid size car. I looked at how far one can open the door IF the cars were centered in the spaces (like that happens). It just did not seem at all worth it to me to go with any compact spaces. Yes, you can get the car in and out...but getting in and out of the car?

What is the percentage of passenger vehicles in your area that are small trucks or SUVs? It is pretty high here.

 

[greenone]

Please don't make any compact spaces! The SUVs park there anyway, and I can't get into my car (a Mini, so it really is a compact). No owner ever polices the lot to ensure only compacts are using the compact spaces.