Which rearview mirror to look at when reversing into a parking space?
2 Answers
When reversing into a parking space, you need to check both the left and right rearview mirrors. Below is the relevant introduction: Reversing into a parking space: Reversing into a parking space has been a required test item for obtaining a small car driver's license since 2013. It assesses the driver's ability to maneuver the vehicle in a confined space. Reversing into a parking space is one of the assessment points in the driver's test, which involves correctly reversing the vehicle into a garage from both sides while in motion. Classification: There are three most common types of reversing. The first is the "non"-shaped reversing into a parking space, commonly seen in large shopping malls. The second is the roadside "one"-shaped reversing into a parking space, also known as parallel parking. The third is the less common diagonal reversing into a parking space. 70% of driving students find parallel parking more challenging.
The key to reverse parking is to skillfully use both side mirrors. I usually start by checking the right boundary line of the parking space through the right mirror, which gives a clear view of the distance between the rear of the car and the corner of the space. As the car is about to straighten, the left mirror becomes particularly important, mainly to ensure the left rear wheel doesn't go over the boundary line. Many beginners tend to focus on just one mirror and drift off course, so it's best to alternate between both mirrors and occasionally turn to check the C-pillar position. Remember to adjust the mirrors beforehand—the left mirror should show where the left rear wheel touches the ground, and the right mirror should reveal the edge of the car. Once, I saw a student relying solely on the central reverse camera and ended up scraping the right front bumper against the wall—cameras have blind spots!
