Question

When parking parallel, is it best to leave the curbside wheels turned toward the curb?

When parking parallel on a slope, leaving the curbside wheels turned toward the curb is the safest way.

Key guidelines for correct parking position 

• If you’re parking downhill, always turn your front wheels toward the curb. This helps prevent the vehicle from rolling forward in case the brakes fail. 
• When parking uphill next to a curb, turn your front wheels away from the curb. Slowly allow the car to roll back until the tire lightly rests against the curb, which acts as a stopper. 
• Your vehicle should be positioned about 6–12 inches away from the curb, not too close and not too far. 
• Make sure the car is parked in a way that allows you to pull out safely without blocking traffic or other vehicles. 
• Always engage the parking brake before stepping out of the vehicle, regardless of whether the road is flat or sloped. 

Why turning the curbside wheels toward the curb matters 

Turning the wheels toward the curb is a key safety measure because it: 

• Helps prevent the car from rolling into traffic 
• Uses the curb as a physical barrier 
• Lowers the risk of accidents if the brakes fail 
• It is often required by traffic laws and driving tests