AITA for parking next to a car that parked on the line?

Parking disputes can often spark more drama than one might expect, especially when small miscalculations lead to uncomfortable encounters. In this case, our OP recounts a seemingly minor incident during a family outing for a Christmas movie—only to have it escalate into a heated exchange over parking etiquette. The tension began when she parked in a designated spot at CVS, only to discover that the car beside hers was positioned with its wheels touching the parking line.

With her small Chevy Bolt neatly centered in her spot, our OP was surprised to face reproach from the owner of a midsize SUV who complained about the proximity of their vehicles. The argument, while brief, raises questions about individual responsibility in shared parking areas and how a single misaligned vehicle can trigger a blame game.

‘ AITA for parking next to a car that parked on the line?’

Navigating the concrete jungle of a parking lot can be a stressful experience. This redditor’s encounter highlights the frustrations that can arise when drivers don’t adhere to the unspoken rules of parking lot conduct. It’s a classic case of “who’s at fault” when space is limited and tensions are high.

The core issue here is whether the OP was an “asshole” for parking next to a car that was parked on the line, even though the OP’s own car was centered in its designated spot. The other driver’s argument that the OP is to blame if their door dings the OP’s car because the OP “could have parked elsewhere” raises questions about reasonable expectations and shared responsibility in parking situations.

Parking lot disputes are a common source of frustration for drivers. A 2017 study by the National Parking Association found that parking lot accidents account for a significant percentage of all low-speed collisions. While many of these accidents are caused by driver error, some can be attributed to inconsiderate parking practices that make it difficult for others to maneuver safely.

“Parking lot courtesy is essential for creating a positive experience for everyone,” says Anthony Foxx, former U.S. Secretary of Transportation. “When drivers are mindful of how their parking choices impact others, it reduces the risk of accidents and minimizes stress.” Foxx emphasizes the importance of parking within the lines and leaving adequate space for other vehicles.

The OP’s decision to park next to a car that was already on the line, while perhaps not ideal, doesn’t necessarily make them an “asshole.” They parked in the middle of their designated spot, and it’s reasonable to expect drivers to park within the lines. The other driver’s attempt to shift blame onto the OP for a potential door ding seems unreasonable, especially given their own questionable parking job.

Here’s what the community had to contribute:

The Reddit community has been quick to weigh in on this issue. Many commenters sided with our OP, arguing that the adjacent car’s misalignment was the root of the problem. Some users noted that if the other driver had parked properly, the conflict wouldn’t have arisen, while a few thought that a bit of extra caution when parking in tight spaces is always warranted. The consensus largely favors personal accountability, with many urging the misaligned driver to “buzz off” and let proper parking etiquette prevail.

In the end, this incident isn’t merely about who’s at fault for a tight parking spot—it’s about how we manage shared spaces and respect one another’s property. While our OP did nothing wrong by parking correctly, the dispute underscores the importance of proper vehicle placement and open communication among drivers. What do you think? Have you ever faced a similar parking spat, and how did you handle it? Share your thoughts and join the discussion below.