What is the reason for touching the left line during parallel parking?
3 Answers
Front wheel touching the line is caused by turning the steering wheel to the right too early at the first point, while rear wheel touching the line results from returning the steering wheel to center too late after turning left to the full lock. Below is more information about parallel parking: Introduction: Parallel parking is a component of the second subject in the driver's license test. Parallel parking is becoming increasingly common in urban areas, especially as parking spaces in formal parking lots become more limited. Many places have designated parking spaces along the sides of streets, creating "parallel parking spaces." Evaluation criteria: Test standards: If the vehicle body crosses the line after stopping in the parking space, 100 points are deducted. If the wheels touch the lane boundary line while moving, 10 points are deducted. If the vehicle is not parked within the space, 100 points are deducted. If the left turn signal is not activated when starting, 10 points are deducted. If the vehicle stops midway, 100 points are deducted.
I often drive an SUV for long distances, and frequently encounter the issue of crossing the left line. The main reasons are not maintaining a proper distance from the line at the start, with too steep an angle, and turning the steering wheel too sharply while reversing without controlling the speed. Recalling the last time I parallel parked in a narrow alley in the neighborhood, I was too nervous and started reversing too early, causing the left wheel to cross the line. The solution is to practice reference points more, such as adjusting position by checking the rearview mirror. Additionally, different vehicle models have variations—SUVs, due to their taller and larger bodies and bigger blind spots, are more prone to mistakes. It’s best to practice in open areas to familiarize yourself with the vehicle’s dimensions, and slow operations can reduce errors. This not only ensures safety but also avoids scratches and prolongs tire life. Remember these tips, and next time, it will be less likely to go wrong.
After getting my driver's license, I practiced parallel parking but kept hitting the left curb, which was really embarrassing. Maybe my visual judgment was off—I always thought the front of the car had cleared the curb when it was still too close. Or perhaps I didn’t slow down enough and turned the steering wheel too sharply. My instructor kept saying I was too tense, not sitting straight, which affected my steering angle. Now, I practice more in parking lots—first aligning properly, then reversing slowly while checking the curb position in the mirrors and adjusting in time. Also, when the weather is bad, the road gets slippery, making it easier to lose control, so extra caution is needed. After making these improvements, I feel much better—at least I’m not getting scolded as often anymore.
