ss CHAPTER 9 CHANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKING CHAPTER OBJECTIVES This chapter shows you howto: m Safely change lanes 1 Signal and make different types of turns 1m Properly park your vehicle & CHAPTER 9: CHANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKINGBASIC MANEUVERS ‘There are several basic maneuvers, or vehicle movements, that all drivers need to perform to travel from one place to another. These maneuvers include changes in the speed at which a vehicle is traveling and the direction and/or position of a vehicle. This chapter emphasizes the skills, methods, and laws related to the common vehicle maneuvers of changing lanes, ‘turning, and parking. CHANGING paar , LANES MS MM ES eae ee a Changing lanes is a basic movement commonly made in many traffic situations that involves changing the vehicle's position to the left or right. Like most driving maneuvers, changing lanes may also involve a change in your vehicle’s speed. When you change your vehicle’s position on the roadway, you are required by law to signal in advance to alert other drivers of your intentions. As with any other aspect of driving, effective ‘communication is key to reducing risk. ‘The most important aspect of changing lanes is being certain the lane you wish to move into is open and available to you. Before changing lanes, ask yourself m Isanyone already in the lane I want to move to? Will any vehicle near me attempt to move into that same lane? mw Isanyone rapidly approaching from behind? HOW [0 DRIVESTEPS TO SAFELY CHANGE LANES ‘Take these steps to safely change lanes: 1, Search ahead, to the sides, and behind your vehicle to identify a safe gap in traffic. 2, Signal your intention to move left or right. 8, Recheck blind zones in the direction of your intended lane change. 4. When you have enough space, gently steer into the new lane, adjusting your speed to match the traffic flow, if necessary. 5. Once you are safely driving in the new lane, cancel your turn signal and recheck your speed and position, COMMON SITUATIONS ‘Common traffie situations in which you change lanes include when entering traffic, leaving traffic and parking along a curb, leaving traffic near intersections, and driving on multiple-lane streets. Entering Traffie. When you enter traffic from a parking lane, you must yield the right-of-way to vehicles in travel lanes. In city/town driving environments, only attempt to enter traffic when approaching vehicles are at least one-half block away. Search at least one block ahead along your intended path of travel, and a greater distance when traffic is moving at fast speeds. Steer into the nearest travel lane and accelerate smoothly to match the speed of traffic. Leaving Traffic and Parking along a Curb. Decide well in advance when and where you will leave traffic before moving froma travel lane to a parking lane. Positioning your vehicle parallel and close to a curb requires time to judge space and steer precisely. Signal appropriately and slow your vehicle gradually. Tap your brake pedal several times to flash your brake lights and warn drivers behind you, When traffic is heavy and slow-moving, giving the “Stop” hand signal may also be appropriate; to do so, lower your window and point your hand and arm downward. Leaving Traffic Near Intersections. Take special care when you are planning to move from a travel lane to a parking lane located immediately before or beyond an intersection, because other drivers might misinterpret your intentions. When parking before the intersection, alert drivers behind you by rapidly tapping your brake pedal several times before you signal. If you plan topark beyond an intersection, time your signal so that other drivers do not think you are turningat the intersection, HANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKING‘Multiple-lane Streets. Many situations on multiple- lane streets require drivers to change lanes, such asa vehicle ahead in your lane that is preparing to turn, a road sign that indicates your lane is ending, or a lane that is restricted for slow-moving vehicles or other obstructions. In all of these situations, right-of-way rules apply. The driver traveling in a blocked lane must yield to oncoming vehicles and to vehicles in the same lane traveling in the same direction. COMMON ERRORS Itis common for new drivers to make some mistakes when changing lanes, With time, correction, and practice, these errors will occur less often until they have been eliminated, Common errors in lane changing include: @ The driver does not signal to communicate the Pay close attention to the intention to change lanes. actions of other drivers before The driver moves toward or into the new lane you change lanes. prematurely. This can happen when a driver looks into their mirrors to search for open space to the side and does not keep the steering wheel straight. 1m The driver decreases vehicle speed. This error commonly occurs when traffic volume is heavy, and itis difficult to find adequate space to move into. Unless there isa reason to adjust your speed (e.g, for a slower-moving. vehicle ahead of you), itis best to maintain a constant speed as you change lanes. The driver turns the steering wheel more than necessary. Very little steering wheel input is needed to move into an adjacent lane, m The driver moves into the new lane in a position too close to the vehicle ahead. The closer your vehicle is to an object, the less time and space you have ifyou must steer around it. m The driver neglects to cancel the turn signal once their vehicle is established in the new lane. SIGNALING ‘Turn signals cancel themselves when making full turns, but not necessarily when changing lanes. Some manufacturers equip their vehicles with a feature that makes it convenient for drivers to signal when changing lanes. By slightly nudging, the turn signal lever down for left and up for right, the vehicle’s corresponding side turn signals flash three times. This feature is particularly helpful when driving inhigh-speed traffic, as on expressways and freeways, because it helps prevent drivers from leaving their turn signals on longer than appropriate. HOW 70 DRIVE a=e +. SS SS ST SSS TURNING =e ‘Turning into a flow of traffic requires speed control, steering skills, and spatial judgment—that is, the ability to estimate the amount of room around and near your vehicle. In addition, drivers must consider the direction and sharpness of planned turns, and then steer and adjust speed as needed. Always identify the best and least risky path of travel. SPEED ‘Remember to adjust your speed as appropriate before turning; is generally best to proceed slowly. When you turn your vehicle, you are essentially managing the momentum of at least one ton of weight that wants to continue straight ahead. Only your vehicle's front tires are working to turn it in the direction you want to go. When you're moving too fast, your tires lose their grip on the road, Therefore, when approaching a turn, itis safer to drive too slow than too fast. Going 1 mph too fast into a turn can be disastrous, but going 1 mph too slowly into aturn is no big deal; you can always gently accelerate if you need to. Incorrect Incorrect Correct Incorrect Incorrect a CHAPTER 9: CHANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKING CorrectCOMMUNICATING AND POSITIONING Effective communication is important anytime you change direction or position. Signal appropriately and rapidly tap your vehicle’s brake pedal several times as you prepare to turn so that drivers behind you know what you plan to do. ‘Most states require drivers in urban areas to signal at least 100 feet before turning. However, itis best to signal as soon as possible without confusing other road users. On rural roads with higher posted speed limits, signal several hundred feet before your planned turn. However, do not signal so early that other drivers could misinterpret your intentions. For example, drivers on cross streets may see your early signal, think you are planning to turn sooner than you intend to, and pull into your path of travel. The position of your vehicle before and during a turn is important for completing safe turn. Slow to the appropriate speed as you approach the turn by braking ina straight line, with your front wheels pointed straight ahead. Maintain a constant speed as you turn, and then gradually accelerate as you transition back to driving straight. The sharper the turn, the slower your speed must be to maintain control of your vehicle. Going into a turn, search as far ahead as possible, identify a target area into which you wish to position your vehicle, and continue searching for any hazards. Searching ahead also helps prevent you from wandering from your intended path. As you turn, avoid fixating on one specific target or object, because that could lead you to steer toward it. Instead, direct your focus on your intended path of travel. “Look through” turns as much as possible. i When possible, look through turns so you can identify any obstructions. Continue searching ahead through your turning path. Whether a turn is gradual or sharp, adjust your focus so you can see farther ahead and along your vehicle’s pathway to identify any obstructions or potential hazards.TURNING RADIUS Turning too late or too soon, and/or failing to control your vehicle’s speed while turning, can result in traffic problems and even crashes. For example, if you start to turn left too soon, your vehicle will likely cross over the center line of the intersecting road or street, which increases the risk of a crash. If you begin to turn right too soon, your right rear wheel could strike or run over acurb, When you turn left too soon, you Asyou turn, your vehicle's rear wheels always ay cut across other lanes turn (track) tighter than your front wheels. Generally, the sharper a turn, the greater the difference in tracking paths between your front and rear wheels. If you start to steer too late when turning right, your vehicle may cross into oncoming traffic on the road or street to which you are turning. Ifyou start to steer too late as you turn left, your vehicle will go toward the far curb of the street or road onto which you are turning. ENTERING THE PROPER LANE ‘When you turn right too soon, your right rear wheel might strike or run Atsome intersections, arrows on the lane over the curb. pavement surfaces show the required driver actions. Look ahead and position your vehicle in the proper lane before you arrive at an intersection, Many multiple-lane streets include dedicated left-turn lanes at intersections. Enter the lane as soon as possible to prepare to turn. Ifyou are in an incorrect lane, do not block traffic by attempting to change lanes. Instead, continue ahead at the intersection as directed bypavement markings and traffic signals. Failing to do so increases the risk of a crash and can result in a citation for improper lane use or driving in an unsafe manner. More detailed information about navigating intersections ist some intersections, arrows on the provided in Chapter UL. pavement indicate the direction in which drivers must go. a CHAPTER 9: CHANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKINGTURNING RIGHT ‘The following steps outline the safe way to turn right: Approaching the Turn, 1, Make sure you are in the correct lane as you prepare to turn, Prepare well in advance— 500 feet, or one city block, ahead. 2, Signal right for the turn, Time your turn signaling to minimize risk and confusion. Signaling too soon can confuse other drivers about where you intend to turn, and signaling too late gives other drivers too little time to react; both increase the risk ofacrash. 8, Reduce your speed. Ifyou must brake, do so smoothly and in a straight line before you enter the turn. Rapidly tap your brake pedal afew times firstto alertdrivers behind you Right Turns. Stay in the right lane before you actually begin to slow. by searching as far as possible 4, Where there isa curb, steer right untilthe along your intended path of travel. right side of your vehicle is $ to 5 feet from the curb, Make sure there are no other road users, such as bicyclists and motoreyclists, in the space between your vehicle and the right-side curb, 5. Check traffic ahead and to the right, left, and rear. 6. Search for any road users—especially pedestrians—in your path. Yield the ight-of-way to anyone in a crosswalk. 7. Ifyour line of sight is blocked to the left or right, move forward until the front of your vehicle is in line with the curb or the edge of the road you are about to turn onto. 8, When your front wheels are even with the point at which the curb begins to curve, search through the turn along your intended path of travel. During the Turn 9, Smoothly turn the steering wheel clockwise as you move through the turn. 10, Stay in the right lane by searching as far ahead as possible along your intended path of travel. 11. Complete the turn by reversing the steering process, unwinding the steering wheel counterclockwise. 12, Check your mirrors for any approaching or nearby road users. 13, Cancel the turn signal, if necessary. 14. Adjust your speed as appropriate. HOWTO DRIVE &TURNING LEFT ‘The following steps outline the safe way to turn left: Approaching the Turn 1, When turning left, yield the right-of-way to other traffic. 2, Make sure you are in the correct lane as you prepare to turn. Prepare well in advance~500 feet, or one city block, ahead. 3. When safe, move into the far-left lane if one is available. On a one-way street, move into the lane closest to the left-side curb. 4. Signal left for the turn. Time your signaling to minimize risk and confusion. Signaling too soon can confuse other drivers about where you intend to turn, and signaling too late gives other drivers too little time to react; both increase the risk ofa crash. ;. Reduce your speed. If you must brake, do so smoothly and in a straight line before you enter the turn. Rapidly tap your brake pedal a few times first to alert drivers behind you before you actually begin to slow. >. Check traffic ahead and to the right, left, and rear. 7. Search for any road users—especially pedestrians—in your path. Yield the right-of-way to anyone ina crosswalk. 8, If your line of sight is blocked to the left or right, move forward until the front of your vehicle is in line with the curb or the edge of the road you are about to turn onto. 9, Search through the turn along your intended path of travel. During the Turn 10. Steer left when your vehicle's front wheels are in line with the center of the road or street onto which you are turning, If you are turning from a one-way street, onto another one-way street, begin to steer left at the point at which the curb begins to curve. 11. Smoothly turn the steering wheel counterclockwise as you move through the turn, 12, Follow the turning path so that you turn into the lane corresponding with the lane you exited. When turning onto a one-way street, enter the extreme left travel lane. 13, Stay in the left lane by searching as far ahead as possible along your intended path of travel. 14, Complete the turn by reversing the steering process, unwinding the steering wheel clockwise. 15. Check your mirrors for any approaching or nearby road users. 16, Cancel the turn signal, ifnecessary. 17. Adjust your speed as appropriate. Left Turns. Follow the turning path so that you arrive in the lane that corresponds to the lane you turned from. a (CHAPTER 9: CHANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKINGREVERSING DIRECTION Several different maneuvers can be used to turn your vehicle around: traveling around ablock, two-point turning, U-turning, and three-point turning. When you decide you need to reverse the direction in which you are traveling, first consider the advantages and disadvantages as well as the risks involved. ‘To decide which maneuver to use, consider the traffie density and speed, line of ight and visibility, street layout and design, and state traffic laws and local ordinances, Often the best option is to drive around the block, particularly in residential and city driving environments. Although you may need to cross oncoming traffic to do this, the risk may be lower than, for example, performing a slow U-turn during which you are exposed to oncoming traffic for an even longer period of time. Driving around the block could involve: 1) Turning right, continuing clockwise around the block by turning right several times, and then turning left, across ‘oncoming traffic and entering your traffic lane; or 2) Turning left across oncoming traffic, continuing clockwise around the block by turning right several times, and then turning right to enter traffic going in the other direction. BetterTWO-POINT TURNABOUTS Even when using GPS, drivers can become disoriented and then need to adjust their routes by reversing direction. A two-point turnabout is a maneuver used to turn your vehicle around and drive in the opposite direction, which involves backing up or pulling forward into a driveway or lightly traveled side street. There are at least three ways to perform a two-point turnabout: backing right, backing left, and turning right. Each of these methods involves progressively higher levels of risk. Backing Right. Performing a two-point turnabout by backing right involves stopping in your travel lane and then backing to the right into a driveway, alley, or lightly traveled side street. The advantage of this technique is, that you have full view in both directions as you reenter traffic, Follow these steps: 1. Select a driveway or alley on your right side that you wish to use to turn around. 2. Check the traffic ahead, to your right, left, rear, and in the mirror blind zone to your right. 8, Rapidly tap your brake pedal several times to alert drivers behind you and turn on your right-turn signal. 4, Make sure there are no bicyclists, motorcyclists, oF pedestrians in your intended path. Yield the right- of-way to anyone in a crosswalk. 5, Stop approximately 3 feet away from—and parallel to—the curb on your right side, with the back end of your vehicle slightly beyond the driveway or side street. 6. Shift to Reverse, and check traffic again in all directions. 7. When the path is clear, look over your right shoulder and then back your vehicle slowly while sharply turning the steering wheel to the right (clockwise). ‘As you back and turn right, check your space in front, because the front of the vehicle will swing out to the left. 8, As the rear of your vehicle enters the driveway or side street, turn the steering wheel left (counterclockwise) until your vehicle is centered in the driveway or side street. 9, Stop as soon as the front of your vehicle has cleared ‘the road or street from which you backed 10. Shift to Drive, signal left, search for pedestrians and other road users, and enter traffic when it is safe to doso. a CHAPTER 9: CHANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKINGPulling in to the Left. Another way to turn your vehicle around is to perform a two-point turnaround by backing left, although this method isriskier than backing right. In this maneuver, you pull forward into a driveway or alley on the left side and then back into the street. This technique involves entering street or road in Reverse, which places all drivers at a disadvantage. 1, Select a driveway or alley on your left side that you wish to use to turn around. 2. Check the traffic ahead, to your right, left, rear, and the mirror blind zone to your left. 8, Rapidly tap your brake pedal several times to alert drivers behind you and turn on your left-turn signal 4. Position your vehicle to turn left. 5, Make sure there are no bicyclists, motoreyclists, or pedestrians in your intended path. Yield the right-of-way to anyone in a crosswalk. 6. Turn left into the driveway or alley. 7. Stop with your front wheels straight and the rear of your vehicle clear of the road or street from which you turned. 8, Shift to Reverse, and signal right. 9. Search again in all directions for traffic and pedestrians. 10. When the path is clear, look over your right shoulder and then back your vehicle into the roadway. 11, Steer sharply right to keep your vehicle in the nearest travel lane. 12, As the rear of your vehicle enters the nearest travel lane, turn the steering wheel left ounterclockwise) until your vehicle is centered in the lane. 13, Stop when your front wheels are straight, and cancel your turn signal, 14, Shift to Drive, search for pedestrians and other road users, accelerate, and continue ahead, HOWTO DRIVEPulling in to the Right. A third—and even more risky—way of two-point turningis to turn, intoa driveway on the right side of a road or street. The only turnabouts riskier than this technique are U-turns and three-point turns. ‘To execute a two-point turnabout by turning right, you must back across the near-side travel lane and into the far-side travel lane. That ‘maneuver is risky even with clear visibility and open lines of sight. However, this technique often involves limited lines of sight. Executing two-point turnabout by pulling forward into right-side driveway should be used only when there is no alternative. With slight variations, itis amaneuver some drivers use when backing out of residential driveways. ‘Tips. Some new drivers are understandably reluctant to use a private driveway for turning around, even though many property owners understand motorists’ needs. When you must, choose a driveway that offers clean lines of sight in both directions. Avoid turning around near curves and hills. If you feel nervous about using a private driveway, you might rush the maneuver, which increases its risk. Take your time and a deep breath. Before you know it, you'll be turned around, back on course, and heading to your destination. U-TURNS U-turns are a method of turning around that can be performed mid-block or at an intersection. Check your local laws and follow road signs to make sure U-turns are permitted, Some intersections have signs expressly permitting U-turning, and in some jurisdictions you may U-turn if there is no regular sign at an intersection that prohibits the maneuver. On the other hand, at busy intersections, U-turning is often prohibited by regulatory signs. a CHAPTER 9: HANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKINGWhen you perform a U-turn at an intersection, you must yield the right-of- way to all other road users. If you decide to U-turn mid-block, select a spot with little or no traffic and where lines of sight are open. Do not U-turn near acurve, intersection, or crest of a hill. Always ensure other drivers can see you well in advance. Avoid U-turning where children are playing and/or pedestrians are present. Follow these steps to safely perform a U-turn: 1. Rapidly tap your brake pedal several times to flash your brake lights and alert drivers behind that you are slowing. 2. Stop your vehicle as close as possible to the right side of the lane or pavement edge to give yourself the greatest amount of space for the maneuver. 3, Search carefully for traffic in front of and behind you. P 4, If no traffic is approaching from either direction, turn a onyour left-turn signal. . Before moving your vehicle, check again for traffic over your left shoulder and to the rear. 6. Steer sharply left, moving ahead slowly until your vehicle faces the opposite direction on the road or street. If the roadway is narrow and has no curbs, your right-side wheels may travel onto the shoulder. 7. When the U-turn is nearly complete, straighten the Making a U-turn wheels, position your vehicle properly in the travel lane, and adjust your speed as appropriate. In some U-turning situations, you may need to turn around using a three- point turnabout. This situation is common when drivers overestimate the ‘width of a road or their vehicle's turning radius and ability. HOW TO DRIVE aTHREE-POINT TURNABOUT ‘Three-point turnabouts, which involve stopping your vehicle and blocking at least one travel lane, should be used only in the lightest traffic and when no other method of turning around is possible, Never perform a three-point turnabout when you are near ahill or curve, or anytime your line of sight—and/or that of potential conflicting drivers—is limited. Follow these steps to safely perform a three-point turnabout: 1. Search to ensure there is no following or oncoming traffic. 2. After rapidly tapping your brake pedal several times to flash your brake lights to alert drivers behind that you are slowing, ‘stop as close as possible to the right-side curb or pavement ‘edge so you have the greatest amount of space for the maneuver. 8, Because the maneuver requires 15 to 30 seconds to complete, check again in both directions for traffic and then turn on your left-turn signal. 4, Search the mirror blind zone over your left shoulder before you move your vehicle, 5. Move slowly forward and steer sharply left, as far as the steering wheel turns. 6. Move forward until your right front wheel is at the curb or road edge. Your vehicle is now blocking both travel lanes. 7. Search quickly for traffic approaching from both directions and shift to Reverse, 8, Back slowly and steer sharply right, as far as the steering ‘wheel turns. Continue checking for any approaching road users, You must look quickly in multiple directions. 9. Continue backing with your front wheels steered all the way right until your vehicle's left rear wheel touches the curb or road edge. 10. Cheek traffic, shift to Drive, and steer into the proper lane, adjusting your speed as appropriate. ‘Sometimes, a planned three-point turnabout expands toa five-point turnabout. On narrower streets and roads, it maybe necessary to repeat steps 5 through 10 to successfully complete the maneuver.wr a ee GD LT LL TO CME FM ME ES Eh PARKING rrr ee a Many drivers—even some experienced drivers—find parking to be a challenge. However, itis not difficult once you understand parking maneuvers and hone your ability to accurately judge available space, control your vehicle's speed, and steer at low speeds as you drive close to other vehicles. You can learn to park competently and confidently. The most common types of parking are curbside, angle, perpendicular, and parallel. CURBSIDE PARKING AND REFERENCE POINTS Parking alongside a curb can be the simplest way to park, although you risk positioning your vehicle too close or too far away from the curb. You should aim to position your vehicle 12 inches or closer to the curb. Parking laws may require this positioning, but another reason to park within 1 foot of a curb or road edge is that parking any farther away can interfere with traffic in the adjacent travel lane, Reference points are helpful in accurately positioning a vehicle alongside acurb. Right-side Curb. To position your vehicle the correct distance from a curb on your right side, identify a sight line directly down the middle of your vehicle’s hood. When you match that point on your hood with the right-side road edge, your vehicle will be approximately 6 inches from the curb. To position your vehicle the correct distance from a curb on the right side, parallel to a curb or road edge, use the reference shown above. Identify a sight line directly down the middle of your vehicle’s hood and then match that point with the right-side road edge. This should place the vehicle approximately 6 inches from the curb, HOW TO DRIVELeft-side Curb. To position your vehicle the correct distance from a curb on your left side, identify a sight line over your vehicle's hood, extending over the left front corner of the vehicle, When you match that point of your hood with the left side of the curb or road edge, your vehicle will be approximately 6 inches from the curb. To position your vehicle the correct distance from a curb on the left side, parallel to a curb or road edge, use the reference shown above. Identify a sight line projected across the left front corner of the hood and match that point to the left side of the curb or road edge. This should place your vehicle ‘approximately 6 inches from the road edge. PARKING AT AN ANGLE Angled parking spaces are positioned at 45-degree to 60-degree angles toa curb or line. These types of parking spaces are most often located in parking lots, although angled parking also is found along some city and town streets. Angled parking lanes in parking lots tend to be one-way, allowing parking on the right and left sides. Exiting an angled parking space requires traveling in the same direction as when the driver approached the space. To safely enter an angled parking space: 1. When driving in a parking lot, monitor vehicles ahead on both sides of your lane, Watch for pedestrians, vehicle brake lights, and reverse lights. 2, Identify and decide on an empty space. 3. Signal your intention to park by rapidly tapping your brake pedal to flash your brake lights. Activate your turn signal in the direction of the space you have chosen. 4. Position your vehicle at least 5 feet from the rear of adjacent parked vehicles. Entering an angled parking space aA CHAPTER 9: CHANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKING5. When you are able to see down the painted line marking the near side of the space you are entering, steer sharply right orleft as appropriate. 6. Asyou move slowly into the space, straighten your wheels tocenter your vehicle in the space. Monitor the front and rear of your vehicle so you do not strike vehicles parked to cither side of you. 7. Move your vehicle slowly forward with the wheels straight, and stop before the curb or the front of the parking space. Cancel your turn signal, ifnecessary. ‘When leaving an angled parking space: 1, Search carefully for pedestrians and vehicles. When backing out of a parking space, you must yield the right-of- way toalll other parking lot and road users. 2, Signal right or left as appropriate to communicate the direction in which the rear of your vehicle is about to move. 8, Shift to Reverse. Search for traffic in all directions, and look over your shoulder in the direction you are about to back. Check both side-view mirrors. 4. Cover the brake pedal with your right foot. Back slowly until you are able to see past the vehicle parked to your right or left side. Search again for traffic. . When there is enough space for the front corner of your vehicle to clear the rear of the vehicle on the side opposite the direction in which you are backing, turn the steering wheel sharply in the direction you want the rear of your car to go. 6, Back into the parking lot lane or street travel lane and begin straightening your vehicle's front wheels. 7. Stop, shift to Drive, straighten the wheels, continue ahead, and adjust your speed as appropriate, Cancel your turn signal, if necessary. PERPENDICULAR PARKING Because perpendicular parking spaces are marked at 90-degree angles, you need toallow more room to maneuver than when parking in angled spots. Proper vehicle positioning as you approach a perpendicular space is critical. Whether the empty space you wish to enter is on the left or right, position your vehicle at least 8 to 9 feet away from the ends of nearby parked vehicles. parking space HOW TO DRIVELeft Side or Right Side? Many drivers—especially new drivers—find that perpendicular parking in a space to the left is easier than in a space to the right, because: 1, Asyou approach a space on the left side, your vehicle is positioned to the right side of the parking lane. That means you are already at least 8 to 9 feet away from the ends of the vehicles parked to the left. 2. Aperpendicular parking space to the left affords a better line of sight. You are seated on the same side as the space, allowing you to sight through the left side of the windshield and the driver window (ie., “sighted side” parking). In contrast, a space on the right side requires positioning the vehicle to the left side of the parking lane as you approach. It also requires the Griver to look through the right side of the windshield, across the width of the vehicle. Entering a perpendicular parking space Entering the Space. To safely enter a perpendicular parking space: 1. When driving in a parking lot, search left and right for driv out of nearby parking spaces. 2. Use your brake lights and turn signal to communicate your intention to turn into a space. Search for and yield to all nearby pedestrians. 8, Position your vehicle atleast 8 to 9 feet from the ends of vehicles parked on the side into which you are turning, 4, When you are able to see down the near side of the vehicle parked in the space next to the one you are entering, sharply turn the steering wheel in the direction of your spac 5, Move forward slowly, allowing your front wheels to straighten until your vehicle is centered in the space. Monitor the front and rear of your vehicle to ensure you do not strike the vehicles parked next to you. 6. With your front wheels straight, move your vehicle slowly forward. Stop before the curb or the front of the parking space. Your turn signal should have cancelled itself, ss backingReducing Risk. The following are tips for reducing your risk when perpendicular parking: @ When possible, select a parking space that allows you to drive through to the space directly ahead of it. This way, you will be able to pull forward when exiting the space, rather than needing to back out of it. Versus m Be careful when pulling through to a second perpendicular parking space, as some parking lots separate spaces with concrete, curb-height objects that you may not notice when pulling through the space. = As you pull through an empty perpendicular parking space to one immediately beyond it, search for and respond to drivers in the far-side parking lane who may be pulling into the space you want. = When pulling through to a second perpendicular parking space is not an option, consider backing into a space. This allows you to leave the space by driving forward, rather than backing out. Itis generally best to avoid backing as much as possible. When backing is unavoidable, it may be less risky to back into the space, so that when you leave you will have better visibility to the front for exiting the parking space. HOW 10 DRIVEReference Points. Reference points can help you determine how far forward to pull into a perpendicular parking space. You can identify where the front of your vehicle is by projecting sight lines immediately beneath the vehicle's side-view mirrors to a curb or a parking lot line ahead of you. Always leave room between your vehicle and any vehicle parked in front of you. Drivers do not like to be crowded—in traffic or when parked. Pull forward until you see the perpendicular parking stripe just under your left-side mirror. Using the stripe extending from under the right-side mirror provides the same reference point. aA CHAPTER 9: CHANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKINGExiting the Space. To safely exit a perpendicular parking space: 1. Search carefully for pedestrians and vehicles. When backing, you must yield the right-of-way to all other parking lot and road users. 2, Signal left or right as appropriate. 8, Shift to Reverse. Search for traffic in all directions, and look over your shoulder in the direction you are about to back. Check both side-view mirrors, 4. Cover the brake pedal with your right foot. Back slowly and straight until your windshield is lined up with the ends of the vehicles parked to cither side of you, Check again for traffic. .. Continue backing and slowly turn your steering wheel in the direction you want the back of your vehicle to go. 6. Monitor the position of the front of your vehicle to ensure it does not strike a vehicle parked next to you, When the front of your vehicle clears the end of the vehicle on the side opposite to which you are turning, turn the steering wheel sharply all the way left or right as appropriate. 7. Continuing backing and straighten your front wheels as your vehicle enters the parking lane or travel lane. 8. Stop, shift to Drive, straighten the wheels, continue ahead, and adjust your speed as appropriate. 9. Cancel your turn signal, ifnecessary. Exiting a perpendicular parking space HOW 10 DRIVEPARALLEL PARKING Parallel parking is useful when you wish to park alongside a curb, but there is not enough curb exposed to allow you to pull in, front first. Because the rear wheels on most vehicles do not steer, they are difficult to position within 12 inches of a curb. Parallel parking is like aslow-speed lane change, but in reverse, As you manage your steering, and speed, use two areas of your vehicle as reference points: the center and the rear. To successfully parallel park, your intended parking space must be at least one and one-half times as long as your vehicle. Right-side Parallel Parking, To safely parallel park on the right: lustration 1 1. Identify and decide on a parallel parking space. 2, Check the traffic behind you. 8. Rapidly tap your brake pedal several times to flash your brake lights, and use your turn signal. Itis important to warn drivers behind you of your intention to park so they can leave enough space in front of them for you to back into the spot you want. 4. Position your vehicle 2 to 3 feet from—and parallel tothe vehicle you plan to park behind (Vehicle B). . Stop when the center point of your vehicle is in line with the center point of the vehicle you plan topark behind. This is your first reference point check (Illustration 1). Mustration 2 6. Slowly back your vehicle, steering sharply and quickly right. Stop when the center-point of your vehicle is in line with the rear of the vehicle you are parking behind, This is your second reference point check (Illustration 2). Pause here briefly when you are learning to parallel park. 7. Resume slowly backing while straightening your vehicle’s front wheels. Glance forward frequently to ensure the front wheels are straight. Stop when the right front corner of your vehicle is in line with the rear of the vehicle you are parking behind. This isyour third reference point check (Illustration). jjjystration 4 Pause here briefly when you are learning to parallel park. 8. Turn your head, search over your right shoulder through the rear window and turn the steering wheel sharply as far left as it will go (Illustration 4), Check the driver's side mirror and stop in front of the vehicle behind you. 9. Move slowly forward as you straighten your vehicle's front wheels. Stop when you are centered between the vehicles in front of and behind you (Illustration 5). Mlustration 3 Mlustration 5 With practice, parallel parking will become ea: a ‘CHAPTER 9: CHANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKINGReference Points and Dry Steering. As you gain experience and proficiency with parallel parking, you may continue using these reference points, but you do not need to pause at each. As much as possible, avoid steering when your vehicle is stopped (ie, “dry steering”). Turning the front wheels when a vehicle isnot moving can stress the power steering system and cause the front tires to wear. When parallel parking is completely new to you, you might find yourself dry steering; however, with practice, you'll be able to perform the steps as fluid motions. Left-side Parallel Parking. Parallel parking may be available on both sides of one-way streets, When parking spaces are at a premium, you might be more likely to find an open space on the left side of a one-way street. Many drivers. avoid left-side parallel parking because they lack confidence in their skills. ‘However, as with perpendicular parking in a space on the left side, parallel parking in a left-side space can actually be easier than parking in a space on the right, When parallel parking in a space on the left side of a street, flip the procedure described for parallel parking in a right-side space. Exiting a Right-side Space. To safely exit a right-side parallel parking space: 1. Search carefully for traffic approaching from behind you. Shift to Reverse and slowly back up. As you move, steer right and stop as close as possible to the front of the vehicle behind you. Steering right aims the left front end of your vehicle toward your intended path of travel once you leave the parking space. 2. Shift to Drive and check your rear view and side-view mirrors. Always search your mirror blind zone by turning your head and looking over your left shoulder. Be especially alert for bicyclists and pedestrians. 3, Turn on your left-turn signal to alert approaching drivers of your intention to leave the parallel parking space. 4, When there is an adequate gap in traffic approaching from the rear, move slowly forward, steering rapidly as far left as the wheel turns. 5, As the front of your vehicle clears the rear of the vehicle parked in front of you, straighten your front wheels. 6. Move slowly forward until the center point of your vehicle is in line with the vehicle parked in front of you. As you continue moving slowly forward, start turning your steering wheel right. 7. Check the right side-view mirror to ensure the rear of your vehicle does not scrape against the vehicle parked in front of you. 8, When you are clear of the vehicle parked in front of you, search well ahead in the nearest travel lane along your intended path of travel. Search behind you for approaching traffic, and adjust your speed as appropriate to enter traific. HOW TO DRIVEGENERAL PARKING INFORMATION ‘Maximum Distance from Curb. Earlier in this chapter, you learned that drivers must position their vehicles certain distances from curbs when parking. These distances can vary from 6 to 18 inches. Be aware of the related requirements in towns, cities, and states in which you live and visit. Parking Rules and Laws. Regulations vary by jurisdiction, but as a general rule, do not stop, park, or leave your vehicle on the paved portion of a highway when it can be avoided. If you must stop on a roadway, parking regulations typically require you to maintain an unobstructed lane on the highway opposite your vehicle. There should be a clear view of the stopped vehicle for at least 200 feet in each direction, Double parking (ic., parking in a travel lane next to a vehicle that is parked along acurb) is unlawful in most states, Parking within crosswalks, loading zones, and at bus stops is also illegal. Traffie signs and signals, as well as pavement markings, typically identify these areas. Learn your state and municipal laws relating to distances you must park from intersections, fire stations, fire hydrants, and railway crossings. Position of Front Wheels. Itis best to park with your front wheels positioned straight. However, many new drivers find it difficult to tell whether their vehicle's front wheels are pointed straight ahead or turned. In many vehicles, from all the way right to all the way left, the steering wheel must be turned three full times, The same is true with all the way left to all the way right—to go from one steering “lock” to the other, the steering wheel must be turned three complete times. Therefore, when the front wheels are turned all the way to one direction or the other, straightening the wheels requires a driver to turn the steering wheel one and one-half times in the opposite direction. When the steering wheel is within ‘one turn (860 degrees) of the front wheels pointed straight ahead, the vehicle manufacturer logo and other steering wheel features appear upright. A CHAPTER 9: CHANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKINGParking Technology. You may learn to drive ina vehicle equipped with a rear view camera that allows you to see directly behind you as you back up and park. Some systems include a proximity sensor that audibly warns a driver when an object behind is getting close enough to strike. As with any other vehicle technology system, use rear view camera systems to your advantage, but remember that technology isnot designed to replace drivers—only to assist them: More detailed information about vehicle technology systems is provided in Chapter 19. Speed. Keep it Slow. It is nearly impossible for a driver to move a vehicle too slowly when parking. However, itis very easy to drive a vehicle too fast when parking and performing other maneuvers in close proximity to other vehicles, and fixed objects, such as curbs, posts, and buildings. Get in the habit of driving very slowly when parking: in fact, a slow walking speed is all you need for most parking situations. As your skills improve and your confidence grows, your parking competency will strengthen. In the meantime, knowing how to “fix” aparking attempt is important and useful. For example, when perpendicular parking ina right-side space, you might steer too late and find that your vehicle is positioned too close to the vehicle parked to the left of your space. To remedy. the situation, stop your vehicle, shift to Reverse, steer left, and point the front of your vehicle to the center of your space. Then, shift to Drive, straighten your front wheels, and move slowly into your space, centering your vehicle between the vehicles to both sides of you. PARKING GN HILLS AND SLOPES Anytime you park your vehicle, itis important to secure it properly. This is especially true when parking on a hill. If your unattended vehicle rolled, it could be damaged, damage other property, and/or injure someone. Always firmly set your parking brake to hold the vehicle in place, and then shift to Park. In fact, some states’ parking laws require that drivers set the parking brake, When the parking brake is firmly set, even when you park on level ground, you avoid placing unnecessary stress and strain on your vehicle's powertrain components, such as the transmission, HOW 10 DRIVECurbs are not always present when you park on a hill, or slope. Where there is a curb, use it to help hold your car in place. Where there is no curb, turn the front wheels so that, ifyour unattended vehicle were to roll, it would move off the road rather than into it. Downgrade. To properly park on a downgrade alongside acurb: 1, Position your vehicle so the curbside wheels are parallel to—and approximately 6 inches away from—the curb. 2, Move forward very slowly and turn the steering wheel sharply toward the curb. 3. Stop your vehicle when the front curbside tire first, touches the curb, Your vehicle will now be held in place with help from the curb. 4. Firmly set the parking brake and then shift to Park, ‘To exit a downgrade parking space, back up 2 to 8 feet so you can turn your front wheels away from the curb once you are ready to move forward. Search carefully for traffic approaching from behind you. Turn on your turn signal and, ‘when clear, steer into the nearest travel lane. Check behind you and adjust your speed as appropriate. Upgrade. To properly park on an upgrade alongside a curb: 1. Position your vehicle so the curbside wheels are parallel to—and approximately 6 inches away from—the curb. 2, Move forward very slowly and turn the steering wheel sharply away from the curb. 8. Shift to Neutral and allow your vehicle to slowly roll backward until the front tire rests against the curb, Your vehicle will now be held in place with help from the curb, 4. Firmly set the parking brake and then shift to Park. ‘No Curb. When parking on a hill, or slope where there is no curb, the same guidelines apply, whether you park uphill or downhill. Position your vehicle parallel to the road edge, within 6 to 18 inches. Steer your front wheels all the way toward the road edge. That way, if your unattended vehicle should move, it will roll off the road rather than into it. Firmly set the parking brake and then shift to Park. Turn your front wheels toward the curb when parking downhill. Turn your front wheels ‘away from the cur when parking uphill ew [ eS The same rules apply when there is no curb. Always position your vehicle so it will run off the road ifit rolls. aA CHAPTER 9: CHANGING LANES, TURNING, AND PARKING