When performing a parallel park, which angle should your car be positioned at relative to the curb?

When performing a parallel park, positioning your car at a 45-degree angle relative to the curb provides the best approach for successfully maneuvering into a parking spot between two vehicles. This angle allows for sufficient space to clear obstacles while still being able to control the vehicle’s rear as it swings into the parking space.

Starting at a 45-degree angle enables you to align the vehicle with the curb properly as you back in, making it easier to adjust the steering when needed and ensuring you can fit into tighter spaces. As you continue the maneuver, you can gradually turn the steering wheel to guide the rear of the vehicle into the parking spot safely.

In contrast, being positioned at 90 degrees would make it difficult to slide into the parking spot without hitting the vehicle in front of you. A 180-degree position would mean you are facing directly opposite the curb, which is impractical for the maneuver. Driving straight in doesn't allow effective usage of the space available for the maneuver and will likely lead to needing multiple adjustments, increasing the risk of a collision.