Introduction
Have you ever found yourself circling a parking lot trying to find an empty spot? When you finally find one, it's almost always perpendicular parking, and you begin to dread it. Perpendicular parking is one of the most challenging parking techniques to master, but with a little practice and our tips and tricks, you'll be parking like a pro in no time.
Understanding Perpendicular Parking
Perpendicular parking is the technique of parking a car in a spot that is perpendicular to the curb or wall. It's a great way to park in tight spaces and allows you to park more cars in a smaller area. However, it can be a little challenging for beginners as it requires more precision in manoeuvring the car into the spot.
Choosing the Right Spot
The key to successful perpendicular parking is choosing the right spot. To find the perfect spot:
Look for a space that's at least six feet longer than your car and at least ten feet wide.
Make sure that there are no obstructions in your way, such as light posts, fire hydrants, or curbs.
Approach and Positioning
Once you have identified a suitable parking spot, slowly approach it and position your car parallel to the car parked in front of the spot. Leave a little more than a car length between the two cars. Signal to the left and slowly turn the steering wheel to the left, entering the parking spot at a 45-degree angle.
Correcting and Aligning
To ensure your car is properly aligned, follow these steps:
As you enter the spot, straighten the wheel and move slowly until you reach the curb or the wall.
Stop when your car is straight and parallel to the other parked cars.
Make sure to check your side mirrors and rearview mirror to ensure that your car is positioned correctly.
If needed, make adjustments by slowly backing up or moving forward until you're perfectly aligned in the spot.
Exiting the Spot
When it's time to leave, look around to make sure it's safe to exit. Turn the steering wheel to the right and slowly back out of the parking spot at a 45-degree angle, making sure to check your side mirrors and rearview mirror as you exit.
Conclusion
Perpendicular parking may seem challenging at first, but with practice and the right techniques, you can easily master it. Remember to choose the right spot, approach it at a 45-degree angle, straighten your wheel, and make any necessary adjustments before exiting. If you're still struggling, the Park+ app offers a range of assisted car parking solutions that make parking easier for you. Download the Park+ app today and make parking a breeze!
