How to Parallel Park!

Parallel parking. The scourge of driving a vehicle. If only there weren't any of them anywhere ever. Why don't those damn architects or whatever-you-call-them just design *normal* parking spaces? Of course, we know that in reality you will have to come face to face with one of these at some time if you ever drive a car, so let me show you how you can tackle it.

First off, a GIF

This GIF shows you the entire process, really. But let me explain it in exact words.

In words...

- Firstly, you've gotta find a nice spot that gives you enough space. You know how long your car is, so just make a good judgement of where you will fit and where you won't.

- Great! Now you've found your spot and you're ready to go. Line up nice and snug next to the car in front of the spot you want to park in. Make sure that your backside is lined up with the other car's or just behind it.

- Now turn you steering wheel *all* the way around to the side that the parking spot is on (depends on which side of the road you drive). Slowly start reversing your car while keeping the steering wheel in that position.

- Look out your back window and keep reversing and turning until the back of your car has passed facing the front of the car behind the spot (so that if you straighten out now and reverse onto the sidewalk you won't hit it).

- Turn the steering wheel straight then and continue reversing for a little bit more. As soon as the tip of your car's nose is lined up with the back of the car in the front of the spot, turn the steering wheel completely the other way than before.

- Nearly there! Now keep reversing until your either straight in the parking spot or nearly hitting the nose of the guy behind you (remember to always be careful of cars around you!).

- Make some final small adjustments as needed so that you're perfectly in the middle of the spot. Done!

Easy, right?

Sounds too easy to be true? It really just isn't that complicated as people make it out to be. Following these basic instructions will help you do a perfect parallel park (at least most of the time!). Good luck with your driving adventures, Steemians!