Uphill & Downhill Parking Directions

by Julia Drake
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If you are an experienced or a first-time driver, it is important to know the rules of the road, which include different situations for parking your car. Along with learning how to parallel and perpendicular park, you should have practice with uphill and downhill parking. Parking on a hill involves additional driving maneuvers, as well as certain safety rules and tips.

Downhill Parking

Step 1

Locate a low-traffic, hilly street to practice uphill and downhill parking.

Step 2

Stop your car parallel to the edge of the road. Use your passenger-side mirror to gauge the distance and stop about six inches from the curb.

Step 3

Put your gear level in "neutral" and quickly turn your steering wheel clockwise.

Step 4

Let your car roll forward until the front right wheel gently bumps against the curb. Your car should remain straight alongside the curb with only the front wheels turned at an angle. By turning the wheels to the curb, you are preventing your car from heading into oncoming traffic if your breaks suddenly give out.

Step 5

Put your gear level in "park" and put on your emergency parking break.

Uphill Parking

Step 1

Stop your car parallel to the curb. Use your passenger-side mirror to determine that you are about six inches from the curb.

Step 2

Put your car in "neutral" and turn your steering wheel counterclockwise, or away from the curb.

Step 3

Let your car roll back until the front right wheel bumps gently against the curb. Your car should remain straight alongside the curb with only the front wheels turned at an angle. By turning the front wheels away from the curb, your car is protected from sliding downhill.

Step 4

Put your gear level in "park" and put on your emergency parking break.

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