Parallel Parking Tips

 
One of the last skills you learn as a driver is parallel parking. Considering it’s rarely necessary, especially if you live in a rural area, you may not be comfortable parallel parking. Below is a refresher on how to parallel park and some tips you can use to ensure you do it smoothly.
 
To begin, stop so you’re parallel with the vehicle in the space directly in front of where you want to park. Try your best to align your rear bumper with the other vehicle’s rear bumper.
Before you put your car into reverse, make sure there is no one behind you so you’ll be able to execute the park safely. Next, put your vehicle into reverse and begin to ease off the brake. As you’re doing this, turn the vehicle the same direction as the curb. For example, if you’re on the left side of the road, turn left into the curb.
 
After you have moved backwards for a bit, begin to turn the wheel in the opposite direction. This will prevent you from hitting the curb and will allow you to enter the parking space smoothly. If you’ve done it correctly, you should be able to put the car back into drive and realign. If it’s not a perfect job, back out and realign your vehicle again until you’re parked properly.
 
Patrick Britton