Conquer your Parallel Parking fears

One rule to follow is that you need to feel confident, and to accept that you’re going to have to keep on practising until you get it right.

The technique is a structured one that requires practice and a level and determination. You need to remain focused and not lose confidence. It is advised that you should request you go through this manoeuvre many times with your instructor until you are proficient. It doesn’t have to be completed in one complete move, its fine to move backwards and forward to adjust the distance, this is providing that you ensure it is safe and are constantly observing.

Here are some tips that may help:

-Pull up alongside the gap you wish to park in and assure that it’s big enough – allow a minimum of approximately 2ft (60cm) at both ends.
-Move slowly forwards until the back of your car is next to the back of the car parked in front of your space
-Turn the steering wheel to the left, just how far will depend on your cars size (This is best to be first done with a professional instructor).
-Move slowly backwards – using the rear view mirror to keep an eye on the car behind you and the nearside mirror to check the position of the kerb.
-When your car is close to the kerb, your car should be clear of the one in front – turn the steering wheel to the right, to bring the front of your car close.
-Straighten up the wheels by turning the steering wheel to the left.

Safe driving from Britannia!