For new drivers, parking a car may feel like putting the corpse in its place. However, being good at parking boosts your confidence and ensures your & other’s safety on the road.
Heading out for errands or parking at your favorite restaurant, knowing how to park properly is a skill every driver should learn at professional driving school in Queens and beyond.
In this blog, we'll explore 5 effective ways to park a vehicle and share tips on how to become a parking pro.
1. Parallel Parking – The Classic
Parallel parking is often regarded as one of the trickiest parking techniques, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Did you know that over 49% of new drivers feel anxious about parallel parking? (Source: The Zebra)
According to a 2021 survey by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost 29% of drivers struggle with this task when they first learn to drive. But don’t worry—practice makes perfect.
Steps to Parallel Park:
- Step 1: Find a parking space that’s large enough for your vehicle.
- Step 2: Signal your intention to park and slowly approach the space.
- Step 3: Shift your car into reverse, turning the steering wheel toward the curb.
- Step 4: Continue reversing until your car is fully within the parking space, then straighten your wheels.
Expert Tip: Take your time. Do it slowly and correctly instead of rushing and hitting something.
2. Angle Parking – The Simpler Option
Angle parking is a bit more straightforward than parallel parking. This technique is commonly used in parking lots with angled spaces, making it easier for drivers to pull in and out of parking spots.
Steps to Angle Park:
- Step 1: Look for an empty space and signal.
- Step 2: Slowly drive into the space, ensuring you angle your car towards the designated lines.
- Step 3: Once you’re halfway in, straighten the wheel to align your vehicle properly within the lines.
- Step 4: Make sure the car is centered and not sticking out.
3. Perpendicular Parking – Straight & Precise
Perpendicular parking is most commonly seen in larger parking lots. It’s relatively easy compared to parallel parking but requires more focus on precision. Studies indicate that mostdrivers find perpendicular parking more challenging when reversing into a space, as it demands careful control of your car’s trajectory.
Steps to Perpendicular Park:
- Step 1: Drive straight into the parking lot and locate a vacant spot.
- Step 2: Slowly back into the space, ensuring you’re aligned with the lines.
- Step 3: Once you’re in, straighten your steering wheel and adjust your position as needed.
Expert Tip: Use your mirrors and backup cameras when reversing into a perpendicular parking space. Don’t rely only on your rearview mirror.
4. Backing In – The Best Option for Safety
While it may seem tricky at first, backing into a parking space is one of the safest parking techniques. Also, drivers who back into a parking space are less likely to be involved in an accident when leaving. This technique gives you a clear view when exiting and reduces the chances of colliding with pedestrians or other vehicles.
Steps to Back In:
- Step 1: Signal and slowly approach the space.
- Step 2: Reverse into the space, checking for any obstacles or pedestrians.
- Step 3: Once fully parked, straighten the wheel and check your surroundings before exiting the car.
5. Reverse Parallel Parking – A Two-Step Challenge
Reverse parallel parking combines the skills of both parallel and reverse parking. Though this may seem more complex, studies show that drivers who learn reverse parking early develop better spatial awareness and handling skills. This technique requires patience but is ideal for tight spots where forward parking isn't possible.
Steps for Reverse Parallel Parking:
- Step 1: Position your car parallel to the parking space, with enough room to reverse.
- Step 2: Signal, shift into reverse, and begin backing up while turning the steering wheel toward the curb.
- Step 3: As your car enters the space, straighten the wheels and adjust as needed.
Expert Tip: Reverse parking is easier when you use both your side mirrors and rearview camera.
Tips to Become a Parking Expert
Mastering these parking techniques takes time and practice, but you’ll soon park like a pro with the right approach. Here are a few general tips to keep in mind:
1. Stay Calm: Parallel parking in a crowded street or backing into a tight spot, stay calm. Panicking will only make things worse.
2. Use Your Mirrors: Mirrors are essential for parking. They help you gauge distances and avoid hitting obstacles.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you practice parking, the more confident you’ll become. Consider taking driving lessons in Queens NY from Executive Driving School to refine your skills.
4. Know Your Vehicle: Each vehicle handles differently. Know how your car responds to steering and braking for more accurate parking.
FAQs
1. How can I improve my parallel parking skills?
The best way to improve is to practice in a quiet area with ample space, using cones or markers as boundaries. Start slow and gradually increase your speed as you get comfortable.
2. Is backing into a parking space safer than pulling in headfirst?
Yes, studies have shown that backing into a space offers better visibility when exiting, reducing the risk of accidents.
3. Do all driving schools in Queens offer parallel parking training?
Most driving schools in Queens include parallel parking as part of their driver’s training in Queens NY, but it’s best to ask specifically about it when enrolling.
4. How long does it take to become proficient at parking?
It varies from person to person. However, consistent practice over a few weeks, especially with guidance from a driving instructor, can make a significant difference.
5. Can I take online driving classes in Queens?
Yes! Executive Driving School offers online driver’s ed in Queens, which can be a convenient way to learn the theory behind parking and driving skills before hitting the road.
Conclusion
Mastering parking skills is essential for any driver, and with consistent practice, you can easily learn to park in various situations. Whether it’s parallel parking, angle parking, or backing in, each method requires patience, precision, and confidence.
Consider enrolling in Executive Driving School in Queens NY for expert guidance, and you’ll soon find yourself parking like a pro.
