Fire Lanes...?

Question

Is it legal to stay in your vehicle while the car is running in a Fire Lane-No Parking zone for a short period of time?

Answer 1

where are you? it varies from state to state. in texas it's illegal to park, stop or stand (motorcycles) a vehicle (irrespective of occupancy-people in car or not) in the fire line

Answer 2

No parking means no parking whether you are in the car or not.

Stores are not going to enforce it however, as they do not want to irritate their customers.

Answer 3

No it is illegal.

This is the law:

No person shall park, stand, stop or sit a vehicle in a fire lane except to avoid conflict with other traffic or pedestrians, or in obedience to directions of a peace officer or stop sign.

Answer 4

if it was a " short period of time" parking lane, it would be ok. since it is a fire lane, and fires can occur in short periods of time, it is illegal.

the police are the least of your worries, firefighters climbing over ,and through, your car to get to the hydrant, or getting blocked in by the fire truck for four hours, would be worse.

Answer 5

Doesn't matter how long you are there or if your in the car you cant park there. Even though you could argue that if a fire truck was coming you would move it is still illegal.

Answer 6

Normally, they don't want anyone in fire lanes for any reason at all. There are there to make sure there is a clear path or area for a fire truck and other emergency vehicles. Fire lanes also are closest to fire hydrants. it is illegal to park in those spots and areas for a reason. Fires and other emergencies can happen at ANY TIME and they can also happen very quickly.

As a retail worker, I have seen a lot of people try to justify using fire lanes/areas and handicap spaces. Such as this short list:

"I'm just running in really quick!"

"All I need are a few things!"

"I'm in a hurry!"

"I'm still in the car with it running!"

"I'll only be a second!"

"My (insert whoever) will be out in just a second!"

All in all, it would be better not too unless it truly is a real  emergency. Not just simply running in to get a few things or waiting for someone else to come out. If you still want to park in such areas, you better make sure it really is for something quick or that the person you are waiting for is ready. Most retailers, and yes I was one of them, WILL call the police if they see it happen often, or you or your car have been in that spot for a while.

Answer 7

It is legal because if an emergency were to occur you could quickly move out of the way.  If it said "No Parking or Standing" then it would be illegal.