How to parallel park like a pro

Section 1: Getting ready

• Position your car so that you are parallel to the car parked in front of the empty space. Your rear wheel should be in line with that car’s rear bumper. 
• Indicate that you’re turning. 
• Check your rear view mirror and side mirrors. Once everything is clear and you’re sure there are no cars in your blindspot, put your car in reverse.

Section 2: Parking

• Slowly reverse your car alongside the parked car until just after your shoulder passes the other car’s back bumper. Start turning your steering wheel to the side you’re parking (most likely left in South Africa, unless you’re on a one-way road). 

• Slowly straighten your steering wheel as you continue to move backwards. 

• Continue to check mirrors and your front windshield to ensure you’re not about to hit a car or a pole.

• When the car behind you is positioned in the middle of your rearview mirror, brake.

• Straighten up if necessary – you might need to go forward or back so that you’re aligned, and you’re as close to the curb as possible.                    

Section 3: Exiting

• Put your car in reverse and back up towards the car behind you as close as is safely possible without bumping it.

• Turn your steering wheel to the right, indicate that you’re turning and put your car into drive.

• Check for traffic and blind spots in the line you’re about to enter.

• Slowly drive out. If you feel you don’t have enough space, then put your car into reverse and back out a little, taking care not to bump the curb or any poles that are on the side.

• Put your car into drive, and slowly exit the parking.

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