What is the correct sequence for parallel parking?

• A. Drive straight in and then back up to the curb
• B. Stop and start multiple times
• C. Signal, align with the car ahead, back slowly while turning toward the curb, then straighten and adjust to be parallel.
• D. Turn sharply toward the curb first

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that parallel parking is a controlled, ordered maneuver that uses an exact sequence to slide into the space. Start by signaling so others know you’re parking. Then pull up alongside the car ahead at a distance that lets you angle into the space, creating the correct starting position. Begin backing up slowly and turn the steering wheel toward the curb as your rear moves toward the curb, watching how your car pivots around the front bumper of the car ahead. When your rear is in the space and your front bumper clears the car behind, straighten the wheel and adjust forward or backward to sit parallel to the curb with the right clearance. The other approaches don’t fit because driving straight in doesn’t set up the necessary angle, stopping and restarting isn’t a smooth, controlled method, and turning toward the curb first is unsafe and misaligned.