What It Means if You See This Symbol in a New York Parking Lot

New York drivers should keep an eye out - there's a new parking lot symbol in town.

As customs and technology evolve, so have the ways we park our cars. While handicapped parking spaces have been around for decades (below), and even expectant mother parking has become the norm, another new symbol could be just as important to understand.

Every driver is familiar with handicapped parking spaces, but what about the newest parking lot symbol to appear in New York? (Google)

New Parking Spot Designation in New York State

The new parking lot designation, which was first noticed just outside the Hudson Valley, NY in Delaware County, could help save a life. While "curbside pickup" parking (below) or even "employee of the month" signage could be viewed as frivolous, this new design is seriously important.

Reserved parking spots for curbside pickup only became popular a few years ago (Google)

Parking Lot Symbol for First Responders

"We love to have visitors at the fire station for bingo and other events", began a recent post from the Walton, NY Fire Department (below). "You’ll notice 3 reserved parking spots in our parking lot. Please do not park in them".

New Parking Lot Symbol in Walton, NY

The parking spots in question are reserved for local members who are answering an emergency call. The symbol, which is half fire department badge and half EMS symbol, reflects the variety of calls for first responders.

This symbol means the parking spot is reserved for first responders on an emergency call (Walton Fire Department via Facebook)

The signage was installed at a fire station, but other businesses across the state have independently decided to create "first responder parking" of their own with signs available to purchase online. While the symbols in Walton, NY are for specific emergency response, other businesses have used the reservations as a gesture of respect and appreciation.