How to parallel park: Top tips to improve your parking
PARALLEL parking has long been something many motorists have gone to great lengths to avoid.
Granted, there is an art to it - but it's a skill every driver should have.
What is the best way to parallel park?
First up, it's important to size up your target to make sure your vehicle will fit - you want the space to be at least one and half times the size of your motor.
Then, pull up so you're next to the car in front of you.
Put the car in reverse and, when the back of your motor is level with the car next to you, crank the wheel all the way towards the kerb before looking over your shoulder and continuing to head backwards.
When the front of your car has cleared the back of the one in front, turn the wheel all the way away from the kerb, and once you're parallel to the kerb, straighten the wheel before making any necessary adjustments.
Don't forget to keep checking your mirrors and take it slow.
What is parallelophobia?
Parallelophobia is the fear of parallel parking.
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A survey by in 2020 found almost half of Americans are scared of parallel parking, with most fearing hitting another car or holding up traffic.
Around 53 per cent of those asked, however, said they were confident in their parallel parking skills.
Will I need to parallel park on my driving test?
Many states in the US do not require parallel parking to pass your driving test.
Maryland was the most recent state to drop parallel parking from the test in 2015.
But in the UK, learner drivers may have to demonstrate their ability to parallel park.
Examiners will ask you to complete one of three manoeuvres - parallel parking, parking in a bay or pulling up on the right-hand side of the road, reversing for around two car lengths, before rejoining traffic.
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