There are plenty of challenges drivers in Silver Spring, MD face on the road, but there are few that cause quite as much stress and anxiety as parallel parking does. The good news is that this maneuver doesn’t need to be a hassle; follow these tips to take the stress out of your parking experience.
Find the Right Spot
Parking becomes a lot easier when you choose the right parking space. You’ll want ample room to fit your vehicle, with a little extra wiggle room if possible, especially while you’re still getting used to this maneuver. You should also make sure there are no restrictions on parking in the space you choose.
Use Your Turn Signals
One often-overlooked step in parking on the side of the road is showing other drivers your intent by using your turn signals. Signal towards the side of the road you’re parking on before you begin parking. This will let other drivers know what you’re doing so that they can react accordingly.
Check Your Surroundings
Just like any other driving maneuver, situational awareness is critical when you’re parking. Make sure your rear-view and side mirrors are properly positioned to give you a good view of the area behind your vehicle. You’ll need them to watch for oncoming traffic as well as judge the distance between your vehicle and the vehicles you’re parking near.
Start from the Correct Position
Beginning from the right position will set you up for successful parking. Adjust your vehicle so that your steering wheel is lined up with the car in front’s steering wheel. This will allow you a clear view of the space behind you and give you a good starting position to guide your vehicle into the space from.
Cut in Towards the Curb
Once you’ve positioned yourself correctly, start reversing into the spot. When the middle of your vehicle lines up with the rear bumper of the vehicle in front of your parking space, cut the wheel sharply towards the curb. Straighten the wheel out once you’re in towards the curb to align your vehicle properly.
Straighten Up and Adjust
Now that you’re in the parking space, you’ll want to put the finishing touches on your work. Start by straightening your wheels so that you can be as level with the side of the road as possible. You should also adjust your position relative to the cars in front and behind you, leaving some space if possible, to make it easy for everyone to get out of their space.
We hope these tips help you the next time you’re parallel parking! We suggest checking out the 2022 Toyota Highlander if you’re interested in buying a car with the latest technology to provide the best driving experience possible.
Connect with us
