My neighbors keep parking and blocking my driveway. When they do it I have to squeeze through with my car and almost scrape theirs just to fit onto my property. One time I was having company over and it was embarrassing as hell when I was showing my co-worker my new house and we couldn't use my driveway because someone was in it who doesn't belong on my property. I'm tempted to have them towed. Should I do it to make a point? I actually think that would be less awkward than having a conversation with them since I don't know them.
Well, my asshole side says to have the car towed but there's a little part of me that thinks it could start an unnecessary war with your neighbor. If you're willing to endure that, then have at 'er!
I realize that people are sometimes oblivious to things. This could be an oversight or it could be ignorance. It's hard to tell. Is this the only inconsiderate thing they do or are there other instances where they disregard the people around them?
The arguments for towing are compelling. Firstly, it's a clear and unambiguous consequence. There’s no room for misinterpretation when your vehicle is suddenly absent from its usual spot. It forces them to confront the reality of their actions without the need for a potentially uncomfortable, and possibly ineffective, conversation. Secondly, it’s about asserting my right to my own property. My driveway is mine, and I shouldn't have to navigate a bumper-to-bumper obstacle course every time I want to park my car. Towing sends a powerful message that I value my space and my peace of mind.
However, I’m also aware of the potential downsides. Towing, while satisfying in the moment, can escalate neighborly disputes. This could lead to a prolonged period of unpleasantness, characterized by frosty greetings, passive-aggressive notes or even retaliatory parking. Is the immediate satisfaction of having their car towed worth the potential for ongoing animosity?
Perhaps before summoning the tow truck, consider the possibility of a direct, albeit potentially awkward, conversation. Frame it as a simple request for consideration, focusing on the functional aspect of the blocked driveway rather than accusatory language. Something along the lines of, “Hey, I’ve noticed sometimes cars get parked in a way that makes it really tricky to get into our driveways. Would you mind being mindful of that?”
This approach, while requiring a bit of a deep breath and a friendly smile, might be the more mature and ultimately more beneficial path. It opens the door for a resolution that doesn't involve immediate animosity and allows for a chance to build a more positive neighborly relationship.
While the urge to tow is undeniably strong, the potential for a more peaceful resolution through direct communication is often worth exploring first. It might be awkward, it might feel uncomfortable, but sometimes, the most direct way to address a problem is by addressing the people causing it.
And if that doesn't work, well, gosh darnnit, I dunno how those key scratch marks got on your car...