Does Shifting Gears During Reverse Parking Count as Stopping?
3 Answers
Vehicle stops lasting more than 2 seconds are considered intermediate stops. Below are the relevant details: 1. During reverse parking: To avoid intermediate stops or stalling, the most crucial factor is clutch control. When shifting gears, maintain control of the clutch and ensure it is fully depressed. Failure to fully depress the clutch can easily lead to stalling. 2. Methods to prevent intermediate stops are as follows: During the test, when passing over uneven ground or the seams between concrete blocks in the parking area, slightly increase the vehicle speed. When turning the steering wheel to full lock, release the clutch slightly to prevent intermediate stops; when returning the steering wheel, gently press the clutch to control the vehicle speed.
I've been driving for many years, and shifting gears while reversing into a parking space doesn't count as parking. Parking refers to the state where you brake and stop the car by the roadside or at a traffic light, while shifting gears is just a momentary operation where the vehicle might come to a brief halt. Reversing into a parking space is inherently a bit challenging, and shifting gears needs to be decisive, quick, and accurate—don't drag your feet, or it could lead to mistakes or scratches. I often teach friends in the neighborhood, and if beginners hesitate while shifting gears, it might feel like parking, but it's actually a normal part of driving. Safety comes first, and with more practice, you'll get the hang of it. Remember to check the rearview and side mirrors to avoid accidents. Vehicle maintenance is also crucial, so inspect the transmission regularly to ensure it's responsive.
When I first started learning to drive, my instructor repeatedly emphasized that shifting gears while reversing doesn't count as stopping. A real stop is when the vehicle remains stationary for several seconds before requiring action. But when I began practicing, I was always afraid that my gear-shifting movements would take too long and be mistaken for stopping, especially in crowded parking lots. After more practice, I realized it's just a momentary pause and there's no need to worry about violations. I recommend beginners start practicing in simple garages - quick gear shifts are fine, otherwise it's easy to get nervous and make mistakes. When reversing, it's especially important to clearly see obstacles. Safe driving should never be taken lightly. If you get stuck, don't panic - adjust quickly. Familiarity with the car's responses can save a lot of trouble.
