1 February 2012

Tips on parking

Driver training specialist IAM Drive & Survive this week offers tips to drivers on parking.

* Park on the left-hand side of the road if possible, and always at night.
* In a car park, try and reverse into parking spaces as this is safer when driving out of a space.
* Check your mirrors and over your shoulder frequently - you still need to know what's going on around you. Don't jut rely on parking sensors to guide you.
* When looking for a parking place, don't stop suddenly. Drive slowly past a potential parking space and size it up to see if your car will fit. And if you can't stop because you have traffic behind you, drive on.
* When visiting a supermarket or retail park, try and park away from trolley parks and corners to avoid your car being exposed to damage from trolleys.
* When parking, open your window in car parks and turn off your stereo. You can often hear something before you can see it.

"Parking is an essential part of driving which many people find stressful. Don't feel pressurised by other drivers waiting for you to park - it's important to take your time."