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How to Parallel Park. In busy cities, finding an open parking space is a golden opportunity.
Here’s how not to blow it. You will need A car and space to park in. Step 1. Pull alongside
the spot. Make sure it’s longer than your car. Step 2. Pull up next to the car in front
of the space until your side mirrors align. Put on your signal in the direction of the
space to let other cars know you are going to park. Pull close to the car, but not too
close: The DMV recommends two to three feet. Step 3. Turn your wheel all the way toward
the curb, then put your car into reverse. Look in your mirrors and over your shoulder
to make sure there are no obstructions like oncoming cars. Be especially careful to watch
for pedestrians. Even a space in downtown Manhattan isn’t worth a vehicular homicide
charge. Step 4. While continuing to watch for obstructions, slowly back in. Stop when
your side mirror is aligned with the back bumper of the car in front of the space. Step
5. Turn your steering wheel all the way in the opposite direction of the curb, then continue
to reverse slowly. If you have a passenger and would like some help, ask them to get
out and guide you into the spot with hand signals--or open the window so you can actually
hear them. Step 6. Continue in reverse until you are close to the car behind you or until
your back tire bumps the curb. Be careful not to back into the car behind you. Step
7. Put the car into drive, straighten the steering wheel and pull forward slowly until
you occupy the center of the space. Step 8. Once in the space, you may need to maneuver
the car forward and backward a few times in order to straighten out. Step 9. When you
are satisfied, put your car in park. If you’re on a hill, adjust your steering wheel before
putting the car in park -- turn away from the curb if facing uphill, and toward the
curb if facing downhill. Step 10. Turn off the car and put on the parking brake -- you’ve
done it! Prepare to be showered with praise. Accept it graciously and go about your day.
Did you know In some cities, you may get a ticket if your vehicle is parked more than
12 inches from the curb.