How To Parallel Park Like A Pro

Parallel parking is undoubtedly one of the hardest skills to master when behind the wheel. Although you might not like to do it, it's a valuable skill that can save you a lot of time and effort. 

If you live in a city, parallel parking is essential, and you'll also have to deal with busy streets and traffic while getting the job done. That's why it's important you know what you're doing. 

In this blog, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts provides tips and instructions to help drivers master the art of parallel parking.

Parallel parking is of paramount importance, especially in urban environments when parking spaces are sparse. A well-honed ability to parallel park enhances safety by minimising the risk of collisions during parking manoeuvres and increases your chances of parking close to the curb, reducing the risk of your car being hit. 

Additionally, good parallel parking skills contribute to a stress-free driving experience in urban areas. If you can parallel park well, you’ll more likely find a space quicker while also being reducing the number of manoeuvres it takes to fit into the space. 

Think about how much time you'll save!

In the UK, parallel parking is subject to rules outlined in Rule 239 of the Highway Code. It states: 

• Park as close to the kerb as possible. 
• Do not park facing against the flow of traffic. 
• Ensure that you don’t hit anyone when opening your door by checking for cyclists or other traffic. 

Also, you’ll need to abide by parking signs and road markings. Single yellow lines denote restricted parking hours, while a double yellow line means you’re not allowed to park there at any time. 

This is crucial to understand if you live in a city and will help you avoid receiving costly parking tickets. 

One of the essentials to parallel parking is quickly deciding whether or not your lease car can comfortably fit in the space. Add a foot to the length of your car, which will give you enough space to manoeuvre, and visualise whether you think it can fit.

You’ll also need to consider the width of your car to ensure its not sticking out into the road. ‘Kerb-to-kerb’ parking helps combat this, and it involves aligning your car wheels with the kerb, ensuring its parallel and positioned safely. 

Even if you’re in a rush, remember to stay calm and ensure the wheels are straight.

When parallel parking, there are a few principles you can follow to ensure you nail it every time. 

• Signal and position: Signal and pull up next to the car in front of the empty space. Make sure your rear bumper aligns with the rear bumper of the car in front. 
• Adjust mirrors: Ensure your mirrors are in the correct position so you can see the kerb.
• Shift to reverse: Put the car into reverse gear 
• Turn the wheel: Turn the steering wheel all the way in the direction of the space your entering, while looking over your shoulder through the rear window. 
• Begin reversing: Slowly release the brake and gently apply the gas while checking your mirrors and over your shoulder. 
• Straighten the wheel: As your car’s front passes the parked car’s rear end, straighten the wheel. 
• Turn the other way: When the rear end of your car is close to the kerb, turn the steering wheel the other way and slowly reverse. This will ensure your car is straight and parallel to the kerb. 
• Centre your car: Finally, ensure your car aligns with those in front and behind, and make sure you leave enough space so you can safely leave the space without hitting the other two cars. 

One of the great things about modern cars is the sheer technology that’s available to assist drivers. When parking, modern cars have plenty of tech to help up, such as rear-view cameras, parking sensors, and even self-parking technology. 

• Rear-view cameras: When you shift to the reverse gear, the rear-view camera activates, displaying a live feed of the rear behind the car on the infotainment system. On the screen will be guidelines to help gauge your distance from obstacles to the kerb. 
• Parking sensors: Parking sensors detect objects around your car. When parking, a beeping sound emits that increases in frequency the closer you get to an obstacle. Use the sensors as an audio cue and pair them your visuals to park correctly. 
• Self-parking technology: Some vehicles offer automated parking assist systems that can park for you. Activate the system and follow the prompts on the display to get the best results. Typically, the car will control the steering while you control the pedals, and remember to always be prepared to take over if needed. 

Most modern cars available on lease come with advanced parking tech. If this is a must-have feature for you, explore our latest luxury and prestige car leasing deals, many of which include automated parking systems as standard.

Improving your parallel parking skills can be achieved. Start by finding a quiet residential street where you can practice without the pressure of traffic, and pick a space that has plenty of room. This will provide enough room for manoeuvre should you make a mistake. 

As you get better, decrease the length between spaces and park in busier environments, as this will prepare you for real parallel parking. 

Remember, practice makes perfect!

Parallel parking is difficult as the best of times, let alone when there’s other factors in play such as a steep gradient or a narrow road. 

• Steep inclines: When parking up or downhill, ensure you apply the handbrake when finished to prevent rolling. Furthermore, turn your front wheels away from the kerb. This way, if your car begins to roll, it will go into the kerb and prevent it from rolling into traffic. 
• Narrow roads: If you’ve need to park down a narrow street such as an alley, approach at a slow speed and continuously check for pedestrians. Use your side mirrors to gauge clearance on both sides and align your car parallel to the walls of the alley/road.

Parking anxiety is common with all drivers, regardless of age or experience behind the wheel. It’s best tackled by practicing and trying to remain calm at all times. 

Practice as much as possible, and when parking, focus on your breathing to ensure you stay calm. Also, embrace positive reinforcement and congratulate yourself after the task, as this will associate good feelings with parking.

Finally, the most stressful situation you can find yourself in on the road is trying to parallel park when there's busy traffic around. You’ll have to deal with other people watching, traffic passing by, and often a tight space. 

First of all, choose a space that won't block traffic flow and explore all parking options in the surrounding area, such as down a quieter road. 

Once you’ve found a space, use your signals early to make your intentions clear. If necessary, let other cars pass before beginning to park. After you’ve parked, wait until the road is clear to exit your vehicle. 

Find this blog useful? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts produce regular road safety blogs, including How to Deal with Road Rage and How to Deal with the Pressures of City Driving. 

We are also one of the UK’s largest car leasing brokers and offer a range of services from Used Car leasing to Hot Deals.