Proper Parking Near Curb: Guidelines and Best Practices

When parking near a curb instead of in designated lined parking spots, there are several guidelines you should follow to ensure proper and safe parking. This article will break down the key aspects of curb parking, including the recommended distances from the curb, vehicle alignment, and spacing from other vehicles or objects.

Distance from the Curb

Optimal Positioning: Ideally, your vehicle's wheels should be within 6 to 12 inches of the curb. This distance ensures that your car is positioned close enough to the curb to avoid obstructing the flow of traffic but far enough to prevent potential damage to your tires. In California, CA requires the front wheel to be within 18 inches of the curb, and if parallel parking, both wheels should remain within 12 inches of the curb. It is illegal in California to park parallel with the left wheels close to the curb, positioning the car in the direction opposite to the traffic flow.

Alignment

Parallel to the Curb: Your vehicle should be parallel to the curb. Make sure the entire vehicle remains within the lane of traffic, avoiding extending into the street. Proper alignment is crucial to ensure safety and avoid any potential issues with the traffic flow.

Spacing from Other Vehicles or Objects

Distance from Other Cars

Adequate Space: When parking next to other vehicles, aim to leave about 1 to 2 feet of space between your vehicle and the adjacent cars. This space allows for easier entry and exit from the vehicles and prevents potential door dings. Maintaining a consistent distance also helps to create a courteous parking environment and ensures smooth traffic flow.

Distance from Objects

Fixed Obstacles: Keep a similar distance from any fixed objects such as light poles, fire hydrants, or trees. In California, for example, if you're parking near a fire hydrant, be mindful of local laws, which often require at least 15 feet of space away from the hydrant. Adhering to such rules can prevent accidents and ensure that emergency services are not hindered.

Additional Considerations

Check Local Regulations

Specific City Regulations: Different cities may have specific parking regulations. Always check for signs or local laws to ensure that you are adhering to all relevant guidelines. Local laws can vary significantly, and understanding them can prevent fines and other penalties.

Safety

Blocked Views and Flow: Ensure that your parked vehicle does not obstruct traffic flow or the visibility of other drivers and pedestrians. Positioning your car in a way that does not block sidewalks or crosswalks is crucial for maintaining a safe and accessible environment.

Best Practices for Parallel Parking

Driving Test Standards: In most US states, the rule for parallel parking during a driving test is that you must not touch the curb during the procedure. Typically, you should remain between the lines marking the front and rear of the space, usually 25 feet apart. When you are finally positioned, the tires should be at most 12 inches from the curb. Most people practice by ending up 6 inches from the curb, believing it's safer to be further from traffic.

Additional Tips: I typically park closer than 6 inches to ensure I am well clear of the traffic flow. In practice, I sometimes touch the curb very lightly and intentionally to guarantee I end up extremely close. In general, leaving a couple of feet between other cars is a polite and courteous practice, allowing room for pedestrians to walk around and for drivers to maneuver out of the spot later.

By following these guidelines and best practices, you can park safely and responsibly near a curb, ensuring that your vehicle is well-positioned, and the surrounding environment remains safe and accessible for all.