Can You Apply the Brakes During Parallel Parking?
2 Answers
Parallel parking allows the use of brakes. Below are parallel parking techniques: 1. Locate the proper position for pulling over: Upon hearing the "pull over" command, first determine the parking spot, then activate the right turn signal and turn the steering wheel 90 degrees to the right. When the center of the vehicle's front aligns with the curb, quickly turn the steering wheel to the left by more than 180 degrees. When the distance between the curb and the front hood is between 1/3 to 1/2 (instructors often prefer 1/3; adjust according to vehicle size), straighten the steering wheel. If the vehicle deviates, make minor adjustments. 2. Adjust the right-side distance until the front door handle covers the curb edge: Observe and adjust the distance between the right side of the vehicle and the curb. When the right front door handle position covers or is about to touch the curb, quickly straighten the vehicle. 3. Check the left-side mirror to ensure the front door handle does not protrude beyond the rear vehicle: Before exiting, check the left-side mirror to ensure the front door handle does not extend beyond the rear vehicle's body. If no rear vehicle is present for reference, check the distance between the vehicle's edge and the parking line. This ensures the parking position does not obstruct other traffic participants, preventing scratches from other vehicles.
Of course you can use the brakes for parallel parking. I often did this when learning to drive. The main purpose of braking is to control the speed, allowing the car to move slowly without going too fast. Especially in a manual transmission car, I would lightly press the brake while engaging the clutch to prevent stalling. Beginners might not be used to it at first, but with a few practice sessions, you can get the hang of the right pressure: for example, when reversing into a spot, first brake to slow down, check the mirrors to adjust the angle, and avoid stomping on the brakes in a hurry. If you brake too hard, the car might stop suddenly and be out of position; if you brake too lightly, you might hit the curb. I recommend practicing to get a feel for it—brakes are a great helper for parking. For safety, be extra careful with braking in crowded areas to ensure the surroundings are safe. Remember, throughout the process, brakes help with precise parking, making parallel parking easier and safer.
