How to Determine the Distance Between the Car and the Roadside

[StNova]

Methods to determine the distance between the car and the roadside: Turn on the turn signal and drive slowly. Align the wiper node with the curb, at which point the right wheel is close to the roadside. Adjust the steering wheel to the left until the wiper node aligns perfectly with the curb, then straighten the steering wheel and adjust until the car body is parallel to the curb. Finally, apply the brakes to stop—this position is approximately 30 cm from the curb. Methods to keep the car centered in the lane: 1. Observe the left and right side mirrors to gauge the distance from the lane dividers and adjust the car's position accordingly. 2. Use reference points on the dashboard or hood to estimate the distance from the left and right sides. For example, align the left headlight edge with the left lane divider to ensure the car is centered in the lane.

[MacEmmett]

Having driven for over a decade with frequent roadside parking, I've found that the key to judging distance lies in habit and observation. I prefer using the rearview mirror as a reference point—when parking, I look at where the curb appears in the mirror from inside the car. Generally, when the curb line sits at the lower-middle section of the mirror, it indicates the car is very close to the roadside. Side mirrors are equally useful, especially for parallel parking, as they directly show the lateral distance. Another technique is checking the front wheel position: leaning slightly from the driver's seat to glance at the wheels nearing the curb signals the car's approach. Practice is crucial; I recommend finding an open space to repeatedly park, step out to measure actual distances, and gradually develop intuition. Don’t forget vehicle checks—clean mirrors ensure clear visibility, and proper tire pressure aids accurate judgment. This method has proven highly practical for my daily driving.

[DelSamuel]

As a young driver who just started learning, I'm still figuring out how to judge the distance between the car and the roadside. During my first independent drive, I was especially afraid of scraping the curb or guardrail. Now I use simple reference points: after parking, I look out the side window to check the gap between the roadside and the underside of the car. If I can see a small patch of ground or the road edge aligns, it means I'm roughly within a safe range. The reversing camera is super helpful—it shows real-time distance lines, and I adjust by watching the color changes on the screen. In my free time, I often practice parallel parking in open spaces at the park, slowly approaching the curb while observing the reflection position in the side mirror, then getting out to verify the distance to reinforce my memory. Over time, this habit has made me more confident behind the wheel and reduced the chances of accidents.

[SanAndrew]

Technology is a great help while driving, allowing me to easily determine the distance between the car and the roadside. Most cars nowadays come with parking sensors that beep to indicate proximity when nearing the curb; cameras also provide a clear visual display, making parallel parking a breeze. My technique is to combine these aids: when the radar alerts, I check the rearview mirror to confirm alignment. Without these tools, I rely on basic observation: the higher the curb appears in the side mirror, the closer the car is; lower means farther away. With practice, it becomes second nature—just don’t rely too much on any single method.

[Tyler]

In daily driving, judging distances accurately relies on a few small techniques. I usually slow down when parking and observe the gap between the curb and the car body through the side window—seeing a clear gap is sufficient. Alternatively, look at the wheels: glance down at the front wheel position; when the wheel cover touches the curb, it means you're very close. Practice is key—find a quiet street to repeatedly practice parallel parking, then step out to visually check the actual distance to develop a sense. Make it a habit to briefly check the mirrors every time you park, and over time it becomes instinctive—safe and hassle-free.