Perfect parking isn’t a myth; it’s simply a long-forgotten reality that’s rarely taught, seldom remembered, and never practiced.
Perfect Parking Past
It might’ve been awhile since the days of Driver’s Ed or taking that nerve-wracking road test to prove your parking skills, but you most likely remember one thing: it did not go perfectly. Something went amiss. Did you turn too wide when perpendicular parking or were unable to parallel park at all? Maybe parking even caused you to fail the first attempt… or three. That’s because one of the of the most technical aspects of learning to drive is perfect parking.
Because so many fender benders happen when parking or in parking lots, it’s useful to review this guide for perfect parking so that you can help keep your vehicle safe and secure!
General Perfect Parking Tips
● Know Your Reference Points - Study how wide your vehicle is and where the corners, nose, and tail are in reference to your eyeline.
● Slow Speed, Fast Turn - Once you press the gas pedal, you should hover your foot over the brake and press it when necessary to control the speed of your turn. At the same time, you should be turning the wheel quickly to maneuver the space.
● Give Yourself Space - When turning into a perpendicular parking space, approach from the opposite side of the lane between spaces. That way, you can make a wider turn and are less likely to cross over the lines.
Perfect Parking: Parallel
● Avoid Road Signs, Driveways, and Hydrants - Parallel parking is hard enough without worrying about getting towed! Check the curb and signs nearby to ensure that you are parked legally.
● Straighten the Wheel - Angling around the vehicles is tough, but don’t forget to straighten at the end. Otherwise, either end of your car may protrude and be a road hazard.
Perfect Parking: Hills
● Parking Brake - It’s never a bad idea to use your parking brake if you are concerned your car might shift in any direction. Just don’t forget to release it!
● Turn the Wheel - When parking uphill, turn the wheel away from the curb so that your car wheels would run into the curb if it rolled back. For that same reason, when parking downhill, turn the steering wheel toward the curb.
● Brake - Keep your foot on the brake whenever your car is parked on a hill and until you are ready to pull away. Anticipate how the car will shift when the brake is released.
Perfect Parking: Curbs
● Front Curb - When pulling into a perpendicular space, you don’t want your tires (or front bumper) to hit the curb. Pull in slowly and align your car door with the car door next to you. If there isn’t a car next to you, instead line up the bottom of the passenger side mirror with the curb extending to the right.
● Side Curb - When pulling up beside a curb, you don’t want to scrape your tires or mess with the alignment. The best method is picking a point just left of the center of your console and lining the curb up with that point. Remember to pull forward a little beyond that point to straighten the car.
Perfect Parking from the Pros
Tired of parking? Take a break from your parking woes by pulling into a restaurant, hotel, or event with valet services from Unparalleled Parking. Our valet attendants know perfect parking through years of experience, training, and practice. We can park your car in safety, security, and keep it free from damage while you enjoy a carefree evening in Minneapolis!
Need valet services for your venue or private event? We do that, too! Call us at (651) 300-1515 to learn more.