Parking Techniques | Vehicle Handling Tips and Safety
Angled Parking:
Angled parking is commonly used in parking lots and on certain streets where vehicles are parked at an angle to the curb. Follow these detailed steps to execute angled parking safely:
Turn on the Indicator:
- Signal Early: Activate your turn signal well in advance to indicate your intention to park. This tells other drivers that you will be slowing down and turning into a parking space.
- Clear Communication: Proper signalling ensures that other road users know your actions, reducing the risk of collisions.
Approach the Parking Space:
- Slow Down: Reduce your speed as you approach the parking area. This gives you more control over the vehicle and allows for precise maneuvering.
- Position Your Vehicle: Align your vehicle with the parking space at the appropriate angle. Typically, angled parking spaces are designed for a 45-degree or 60-degree angle.
Check Mirrors and Blind Spots:
- Use Side and Rearview Mirrors: Regularly check your mirrors to monitor the area around your vehicle. This helps you stay aware of other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles.
- Perform a Shoulder Check: Look over your shoulder for blind spots. This is crucial to ensure no pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles are in your path before you turn.
Turn into the Parking Space:
- Steer Smoothly: Begin turning the steering wheel smoothly to guide your vehicle into the angled parking space. Ensure you turn at the correct angle to avoid crossing into adjacent spaces.
- Align with the Lines: Aim to position your vehicle between the painted lines of the parking space. This helps maximize the use of space and prevents blocking other vehicles.
Final Adjustments:
- Straighten the Wheels: Once your vehicle is in the space, straighten the wheels to ensure they are properly aligned and secure.
- Check Position: Ensure your vehicle is within the parking lines and not extending into the driving lane or neighbouring spaces.
Secure the Vehicle:
- Engage Handbrake: Apply the handbrake (parking brake) to prevent your vehicle from rolling.
- Turn Off the Engine: Switch off and remove the key from the ignition.
- Lock the Doors: Ensure all doors and windows are closed before leaving the vehicle.
Additional Tips for Angled Parking:
- Observe Parking Lot Rules: Follow any specific rules or directions provided in the parking lot, such as one-way lanes and designated entry and exit points.
- Park Within Lines: Always ensure your vehicle is centred within the parking space lines to avoid obstructing adjacent spaces.
- Be Mindful of Pedestrians: Watch out for pedestrians walking through the parking lot, especially when reversing out of the space.
- Practice: If you are not confident in your angled parking skills, practice in an empty parking lot to improve your technique.
By following these steps and tips, you can perform angled parking safely and efficiently, ensuring your safety, that of yourself, your vehicle, and other road users.