In this clip, we show you how to parallel park. It’s a maneuver which some learners struggle with, and even people that have been driving a while! We show you how easy it is in 4 simple steps.
This makes use of the vehicle’s manoeuvrability in reverse gear to park in a restricted space.
remember, while you are carrying out this manoeuvre, you could be a hazard to other road users.
Position and observation
Good all-round observation is essential for this manoeuvre.
Do not start to manoeuvre if you are likely to endanger or inconvenience other road users.
Other drivers might not be aware of your intentions, so before you pull up at the place that you have chosen to park, remember to carry out the MSM/PSL routine.
Positioning your vehicle
Stop your vehicle reasonably close to, and parallel with, the parked vehicle ahead of the gap . (A half a car door length gap, between your vehicle and the vehicle you are along side is sufficient space)
Your vehicle should be about level with, or slightly ahead, of the parked vehicle. This will depend on the size of the gap and the length of the vehicle.
Manoeuvring into the gap
Apply your handbrake if necessary. Show your break lights by pressing the footbrake. Select reverse gear to show the reversing light(s). This warns other road users of your intentions.
Check all around. (360 degrees)
When reversing your main observations should be through the back window, although you will still need to keep checking for any other dangers and be able to take the correct action if necessary.
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Reverse, so that the back of your vehicle is in line with the back of the vehicle that you are along side. Check over your right shoulder at this point for anything passing. Steer the wheel 360 degrees to the left (one full turn to the left). Be careful not to dry steer.
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When your vehicle has reached a 45 degree angle (two o’clock), steer the wheel back to the right 360 degrees (one full turn to the right).
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Always maintain your observations. Look in your left mirror and you will see a triangle of road, as the road disappears out of sight (this reference point is different from person to person as seating position changes depending on size). Steer the wheel 360 degrees to the right (one full turn to the right)
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When you see the road reappear in the left mirror, steer the wheel 360 degrees to the left (one full turn to the left).
Reverse back straightening the vehicle if necessary, so that you have a one car length gap between your vehicle and the one in front.
Remember
Keep a good lookout for other road users throughout this manoeuvre, particularly
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pedestrians.
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oncoming vehicles.
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passing traffic.
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