What Causes the Wheels to Cross the Line During Parallel Parking?
2 Answers
Here are the reasons why wheels may cross the line during parallel parking: 30-50 cm distance from the curb: Before initiating parallel parking, proper vehicle positioning is crucial. Maintain a 30-50 cm distance between the right side of your vehicle and the curb. Failure to do so will result in significant positioning errors. Crossing the line when entering the space: Turning the steering wheel too early will cause insufficient space at the front while leaving excessive space at the rear, potentially leading to the wheels crossing the boundary line. Therefore, the first reference point must be accurately observed. Crossing the line when exiting the space: It's essential to avoid crossing lines both when entering and exiting the parking space. Whether you turn the wheel too early or too late affects whether the vehicle crosses the line, so timing is critical.
Side parking over the line is quite common, especially for beginners who often encounter this issue. Having driven for nearly a decade, I frequently see others brushing against the lines when parking in my neighborhood. There are three main reasons: First, misjudging the steering angle—turning the wheel too late or too sharply when reversing causes the tires to cross the line. Second, vehicle dimensions play a role; longer or taller cars with larger blind spots make it harder to align properly, leading to line contact. Third, road conditions matter—slopes, narrow spaces, or poor nighttime lighting obscure markings, increasing the chance of overrunning. To prevent this, I remind myself to practice more in open areas, rehearsing parking maneuvers repeatedly. Remember to take it slow and avoid abrupt turns. Additionally, regular checks on tires and suspension help minimize damage risks. Safe driving is key—while a minor line scrape seems insignificant, it can harm tires or scratch the pavement. Always survey the surroundings carefully before parking next time.
