There could be several reasons why people choose to park right next to other cars in a parking lot, even when there are many other open spots available. Some of the possible explanations include:
Convenience: Some people may prefer to park close to other cars because it feels more convenient and saves time and effort when walking to and from their destination. They might prioritize a shorter walking distance over having more space around their car.
Safety and Security: Parking near other cars may give some individuals a sense of security, especially if the area is well-lit or monitored by security cameras. They might believe that being close to other vehicles reduces the risk of their car being targeted by potential thieves.
Social Influence: Human behavior can be influenced by what others are doing. If people see several cars parked close together, they might naturally assume it's the appropriate or acceptable way to park and follow suit.
Avoiding Loneliness: In crowded parking lots, some individuals may feel uncomfortable leaving their car in an isolated area. Parking next to other vehicles can create a sense of being part of a group and decrease feelings of loneliness or vulnerability.
Avoiding Damage: People may think that parking near other cars offers some protection against accidental damage, such as car doors hitting their vehicle when others enter or exit nearby cars.
Familiarity: Parking in the same area where other cars are parked might be a habit for some individuals. They may find comfort in sticking to what they are used to and not deviating from their routine.
Lack of Awareness: Sometimes, drivers may not notice the other available spots around them due to distraction or inattentiveness. They may focus on the first available space they see, which happens to be next to other cars.
Lack of Parking Skills: Some drivers may not feel confident in their parking abilities and prefer to park next to other vehicles, as it provides a visual boundary for them.
Avoiding Shopping Cart Dings: People might choose to park next to other cars to minimize the risk of their car getting dinged by shopping carts or other car doors, as the space next to other vehicles is less likely to be used for cart storage.
It's important to remember that parking behavior can vary significantly among individuals, and the reasons mentioned above may not apply to everyone. Parking choices can also be influenced by cultural norms, personal preferences, past experiences, and the specific circumstances of the parking lot in question.