People that back into a parking spot.

[stchman]

This is really annoying. Call it a pet peeve of mine. I have often wondered why people do it. I do it when I am unloading my pickup truck into the garage.

I usually find that people that think they are exceptionally "cool" back into a parking spot. I guess they are saying "Hey, look at me I am proficient at using the reverse gear".

I also notice that BMW/Lexus/Benz or Fast & Furious types do it. They are too cool for words.

I was at a friend's car club and EVERYONE backed into their parking spot. They were so cool, ice cubes had nothing on them.

Another friend of mine always backs into his garage.

I have asked backer uppers why and they say it is safer. SAFER!!!!!! ***!!!!!

Another said they can leave quicker. Are you robbing a bank and need to make a fast getaway?

I guess they think the front end of their car looks way better than the back.

Oh well, just my rant.

[LaRoza]

What is the point?

They do it differently, so what? You don't need to judge them, and I'm sure they don't judge you.

[stchman]

What is the point?

They do it differently, so what? You don't need to judge them, and I'm sure they don't judge you.

Did not mean to touch a nerve.

[fedex1993]

usually i never back in i usually park a far ways out and pull threw funny thing is at my school it is a 25 dollar fine if you back in :\

[Jay_Bee]

It's not only faster but also easier to get out of the parking spot if you park that way. I once parked the "front" way and when someone parked behind me I couldn't leave (there was a pole that was blocking my front wheel).
From then on, I always back park... and it's got nothing to do with looks or being cool because I am driving an old wreck of a car...

[LaRoza]

Normal curiosity.

I have often wondered why people do it.


Random judgement of people minding their own business.


I usually find that people that think they are exceptionally "cool" back into a parking spot. I guess they are saying "Hey, look at me I am proficient at using the reverse gear".

Weird association.


I also notice that BMW/Lexus/Benz or Fast & Furious types do it. They are too cool for words.

You asked, the most reasonable way to find out why, and you mock their answer.



I have asked backer uppers why and they say it is safer. SAFER!!!!!! ***!!!!!

A good reason, yet you find a reason to make judgements. Some people don't like backing out into traffic. It is easier and faster to go forward into a possibly active road or parking lot than it is to back into it.


Another said they can leave quicker. Are you robbing a bank and need to make a fast getaway?


Another unfair judgement.


I guess they think the front end of their car looks way better than the back.




Did not mean to touch a nerve.
Well, you do realise your post was very touchy about nothing. I put my shirt on before my pants, is that a reason to make accusations of illegal activity or vanity? Would you mock my reason for it in capital letters?

[stchman]

It's not only faster but also easier to get out of the parking spot if you park that way. I once parked the "front" way and when someone parked behind me I couldn't leave (there was a pole that was blocking my front wheel).
From then on, I always back park... and it's got nothing to do with looks or being cool because I am driving an old wreck of a car...

Wether you back in or pull in if you are blocked you are blocked. If that car on that fateful day that blocked you had you backed in then the pole would have been blocking your back wheel instead of your front wheel. Backing into a parking spot does not change the configuration of your car.

I just get mad when I am driving in a parking lot and some backer upper passes a parking spot to then hit the brakes and back in. I almost got into a fight with a guy that accused me of "stealing" his spot. I said, "you passed it up". He said, "I was backing in". T.S. I told him. I guess the backer uppers hate parking lots with angle style parking spaces.

[Jay_Bee]

Wether you back in or pull in if you are blocked you are blocked. If that car on that fateful day that blocked you had you backed in then the pole would have been blocking your back wheel instead of your front wheel. Backing into a parking spot does not change the configuration of your car.

No, because I don't steer with my back wheels, I steer with my front, so I could easily exit the spot if my back wheel was beside the pole and my front wheels free.


I guess the backer uppers hate parking lots with angle style parking spaces.
How did you conclude that? I park in angle if that is how others are parked, it's easy and in a way you are partially out already. Only thing I hate is side parking ;)

Maybe you should ask yourself why does it bother you? You can't back in without hitting the wall?
:popcorn:

[lisati]

Many of the drives on my street are quite short, and some of the drivers have trouble seeing the footpath because of hedges, fences and other obstructions. I don't particularly want to get run over by a driver who can't see me when backing out while I'm walking to the local shop.

[koenn]

I have asked backer uppers why and they say it is safer. SAFER!!!!!! ***!!!!!
.

They're right, it is safer. Often, it's also easier.

If you reverse into a parking spot, all you have to worry about is staying between the lines or the cars already parked there. That's easy.

It allows you to drive forward to leave the parking spot again, with a good view through your front and side windows, allowing you to spot other cars, people, .... that might be there.
This is especially the case with larger vehicles that need to back out quite far before you can commence your turn, and especially with vehicles that have limited rear view, such as vans - while reversing into a parking spot is just a matter of looking in the mirrors and lining up.

There's a small additional benefit in that when you reverse and turn, the steering wheels are in the rear, allowing for a sharper turn to enter the parking spot.

Like others have mentioned, those benefits only increase if you're parked on a driveway that gives out on a busy street.

[aysiu]

I don't always do it, but backing in actually makes quite a bit of sense. When you back into a spot, you don't have to worry too much about hitting any oncoming traffic. And then when you pull out, it's much easier to see if you're going forward than backward. Some parking lots (or car parks) have rules against backing in, though.

[stchman]

No, because I don't steer with my back wheels, I steer with my front, so I could easily exit the spot if my back wheel was beside the pole and my front wheels free.

Exactly, if the car is blocking the parking spot you backed into then your turning wheels are facing the car that blocked you. I would have to see how you were blocked.



How did you conclude that? I park in angle if that is how others are parked, it's easy and in a way you are partially out already. Only thing I hate is side parking ;)

Maybe you should ask yourself why does it bother you? You can't back in without hitting the wall?
:popcorn:

No, I back up just fine.

[oldsoundguy]

Ask any auto insurance person and they will tell you it is much safer to back INTO a parking space than backing OUT of a parking space. (most parking lot accidents occur when backing out!)

The various telephone companies in the US tell their employees .. NEVER back up except in dire emergencies. (go look at one of their company vehicle lots .. all of the vehicles including big trucks have been backed into the spaces!)

For many, it has nothing to do with being "cool" or showing off. It has to do with the fact that they do not want to get their vehicle trashed by some yo yo speeding down between the parked cars and they back into his path!

[PartisanEntity]

I have no idea what this thread is about. What kind of parking lots are you talking about?

I always back into a parking lot, it is the most convenient way and that is how most people do it here. So what on earth is the point of this thread???

[aysiu]

I have no idea what this thread is about. What kind of parking lots are you talking about?

I always back into a parking lot, it is the most convenient way and that is how most people do it here. So what on earth is the point of this thread???
I did a little Google search and came up with some discussion (http://ask.metafilter.com/29167/Why-do-some-people-park-backwards) that had this comment early on:
It seems to be that parking front-in only is primarily a US phenomenon. In Europe and Asia (well, Singapore and Malaysia at least), where parking spaces tend to be smaller than in the US (well, Texas at least!) many people reverse park in car parks because it's easier to get in to and out of a tight spot that way.
posted by netsirk at 10:12 AM on December 16, 2005 Your profile location says you're in Austria. So if what this person says is true then maybe it is mainly a US issue?

[aysiu]

I have no idea what this thread is about. What kind of parking lots are you talking about?

I always back into a parking lot, it is the most convenient way and that is how most people do it here. So what on earth is the point of this thread???
I did a little Google search and came up with some discussion (http://ask.metafilter.com/29167/Why-do-some-people-park-backwards) that had this comment early on:
It seems to be that parking front-in only is primarily a US phenomenon. In Europe and Asia (well, Singapore and Malaysia at least), where parking spaces tend to be smaller than in the US (well, Texas at least!) many people reverse park in car parks because it's easier to get in to and out of a tight spot that way.
posted by netsirk at 10:12 AM on December 16, 2005 Your profile location says you're in Austria. So if what this person says is true then maybe it is mainly a US issue?

[cariboo]

In some places it is against the law to back out of your driveway into traffic. Here in British Columbia, thats the law. People don't get ticketed very often for the infraction, but I have seen it happen. My driveway is 200 meters long so it would be kind of stupid to back out of it. :)

Jim

[scotty32]

I always reverse into a parking space because when I come to leave, I cant see squat.

Maybe its not much of a problem in America, but in England we dont have the luxury of space like Americans do, so parking spaces are very cramped over here.


People have given you lots of reasons why they reverse into parking spaces, yet I haven't seen a single reason to drive forwards into a parking spot.

or are the reasons "not to look cool", "not to look like your robbing a bank", "because the back is prettier than the front"? :confused:


(PS: I hate people who reverse out of their driveways, as they generally don't see you - I've had quite a fair few near misses on the road and car parks because of the idiots didn't look properly [or couldn't see me] :mad: )

[stchman]

I have seen MANY a people back into a parking and end up hitting the car next to them.

[LaRoza]

Maybe its not much of a problem in America, but in England we dont have the luxury of space like Americans do, so parking spaces are very cramped over here.


America's space isn't a luxury; it is just that England has a penance.

Also, parking spaces aren't much bigger I think. It isn't like we use our wilderness for parking lots. The parking in my city is quite cramped downtown.

[stchman]

In some places it is against the law to back out of your driveway into traffic. Here in British Columbia, thats the law. People don't get ticketed very often for the infraction, but I have seen it happen. My driveway is 200 meters long so it would be kind of stupid to back out of it. :)

Jim

Yes you back that 200M into your driveway. Either way you are backing.

[stchman]

Maybe its not much of a problem in America, but in England we dont have the luxury of space like Americans do, so parking spaces are very cramped over here.


Regardless if you back into a space or forward into a space the parking space size remains the same so that argument is ridiculous at best.

[koenn]

I have seen MANY a people back into a parking and end up hitting the car next to them.

and that proves what exactly ?
That they would not hit anything if they backed out of a parking ?

[walkerk]

The Military calls it combat parking and it's the standard. Quick exits :P

I park my car normally :)

[koenn]

Regardless if you back into a space or forward into a space the parking space size remains the same so that argument is ridiculous at best.

no, the radius of the turn changes, depending on whether the car is steered from the back or from the font.

[Tamlynmac]

It occurred to me that backing into a parking place can be just as dangerous as backing out. Not to mention increased odds of hitting a vehicle parked next to the space. Especially, if done improperly. One reason is people attempt to hurry when backing into a parking space so as not to impede other drivers.

Road rage seems to have increased recently and I've noticed many people releasing their hostility on others when a driving mistake is made. Not considering how many mistakes they have made in the not so distance past.

I do agree that people passing a parking spot then stopping to back up with failure to assure no one is directly behind them does create a risk. I've actually honked my horn (rarely use it) to notify a driver that I was behind them and that turned into a shouting match. Their opinion was I should have move out of their way (excuse me).

It might be a good idea if everyone took a moment and considered that their driving patterns / behavior impacts others. Patience alone would resolve most of these issues. Many parking accidents do occur when backing however, it's generally related to a failure to perform basic safe driving techniques. Failure to assure no one is behind your vehicle or being in a hurry and simply expecting others to move or stop.

[stchman]

The Military calls it combat parking and it's the standard. Quick exits :P

I park my car normally :)

If there is a need to leave in a big hurry (i.e. bank robbery, chasing an assailant, etc.) then yes backing into a parking spot is advantageous. The last time I went to the mall a quick getaway was not on my mind.

[LaRoza]

The last time I went to the mall a quick getaway was not on my mind.

Was backing into moving cars or people because you couldn't see as clearly on your mind ;)

[stchman]

and that proves what exactly ?
That they would not hit anything if they backed out of a parking ?

No that it is easier to reverse into an open area than to reverse into tight quarters. Remember when automobile are designed they are not designed to handle and maneuver nearly as well as when driving forward.

[LaRoza]

Yes you back that 200M into your driveway. Either way you are backing.

Yes, but at one end there are moving cars and the other end the garage.

[scotty32]

No that it is easier to reverse into an open area than to reverse into tight quarters. Remember when automobile are designed they are not designed to handle and maneuver nearly as well as when driving forward.

But the cars next to you obstruct your view, so you cant see if that IS an open area.



Again - what are the benefits of parking forwards?

[DougieFresh4U]

I find it easier to have backed in when a situation arises, such as a dead battery and you need a jump start. It is much easier for the jumper cables to be connected. Also, in the winter I find it easier to "drive out" of a spot I was parked in all nite and the snow plow has come through and built up snow along the sides of parking rows, making snow drifts for cars to drive over getting out of the parking space.
Just my personal view.

[smoker]

sometimes you don't get a choice :)

[Lostincyberspace]

I have backed into a parking space once, for my drivers test, in a car. Though I do often pull through since it gives the best of both worlds. Easy to get in, and out fast. when I do have to normal park I will wait at the end of the car until it looks like no cars are coming and then get in the car and start backing out, slowly.

Though when I am pulling a trailer (not with a car) I have to back a lot more because of the visibility issue being very important. But I do try to pull through as much as possible, because not matter what way you look at it, visibility is key to driving.

People in the US get road rage really bad now days and I think it is just better to back when getting out since that is more common here.

If I lived in an apartment complex I would probably back in since there is generally less traffic.

[koenn]

No that it is easier to reverse into an open area than to reverse into tight quarters. Remember when automobile are designed they are not designed to handle and maneuver nearly as well as when driving forward.
Of course reversing into an open area is easier than reversing into a small area. Likewise, driving forward into an open area is easier than driving forward into tight quarters. You're not really making a point here.

About maneuverability : read back what I wrote about turning radius. Ever seen a forklift turn ?

[stchman]

But the cars next to you obstruct your view, so you cant see if that IS an open area.



Again - what are the benefits of parking forwards?

You act is if we all drive Smart Cars in the land of Ford Excursions. When I am backing out of a parking spot I have no trouble seeing.

I usually park at the very back of a parking lot as to park nowhere near idiots and backer-uppers even when the lot is sparsely populated.

I find that backing accidents happen in parking lots when idiots are flying up and down drives. Here is a perfect example of where it would be hard for the backer-upper.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bb/Angle_parking_lot_diagram.PNG

[insane_alien]

i back in unless i need access to the boot. no rhyme or reason, just what i've always done. it is also easier to drive forward out of the space especially when it is busy as you have a greater field of view.

i totally don't understand why some parking lots have rules about whether you drive in or reverse.

all in all, your going to have to reverse at some point, who gives a damn which order you do it in?

[stchman]

Of course reversing into an open area is easier than reversing into a small area. Likewise, driving forward into an open area is easier than driving forward into tight quarters. You're not really making a point here.

About maneuverability : read back what I wrote about turning radius. Ever seen a forklift turn ?

Forklifts were designed to be maneuverable in reverse, modern autos are not. Although when I drove a forklift I used reverse to just get the pallet off of the truck. I then turned around and drove FORWARD. Forklifts are also designed to hold several tons at a substantial height. You cannot compare a forklift to a car except they usually both have 4 wheels.

[toupeiro]

Its my companies policy to always back into their parking lot spaces. Statistics will show that the majority of parking lot accidents are caused by backing out. Having your "first move forward" gives you much better vision of your surroundings as you leave your parking space.

I don't see how you could have a pet peeve about this. It shouldn't affect you one way or the other. I think that much energy should be saved for the people who straddle parking places, or park "on the line"

[macogw]

stchman:
If you are in a busy parking lot, and there are cars on either side, you can't see if another car's coming down the row and you're about to back right into them. However, when you back into the parking spot, you are pretty much guaranteed that no other cars are going to magically pop out of the ground and into the spot you were trying to park in.

[koenn]

Forklifts were designed to be maneuverable in reverse, modern autos are not. Forklifts are also designed to hold several tons at a substantial height. You cannot compare a forklift to a car except they usually both have 4 wheels.

forklifts are maneuverable in just about any direction because they're notably shorter than cars. The're actually designed to be most maneuverable when moving forward, because that's when it matters : the driver needs to be able to steer very precisely to pick up or deposit the load.
But that's not the point.

I gave forklifts as an example because the're capable of extremely short turns (almost in-place) because they steer with their rear wheels. Likewise, a car backing up can make shorter turns than a car moving forward.

The fact that you have trouble understanding this tells me that you probably don't really know how a car moves in reverse. Maybe a lack of driving experience ?

[scotty32]

You act is if we all drive Smart Cars in the land of Ford Excursions. When I am backing out of a parking spot I have no trouble seeing.

I usually park at the very back of a parking lot as to park nowhere near idiots and backer-uppers even when the lot is sparsely populated.

I find that backing accidents happen in parking lots when idiots are flying up and down drives. Here is a perfect example of where it would be hard for the backer-upper.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bb/Angle_parking_lot_diagram.PNG


I did mention previously that I live in England, not America.

Its more common to see smaller cars here - though we do have a fair few 4x4s, our 4x4s are probably far smaller than American 4x4s. (hummer's/humvee's tend to have a very hard time on our roads)



Maybe this is an American issue, also Ive never seen an angled car park in my life.

[stchman]

Its my companies policy to always back into their parking lots. Statistics will show that the majority of parking lot accidents are caused by backing out. Having your "first move forward" gives you much better vision of your surroundings as you leave your parking space.

I don't see how you could have a pet peeve about this. It shouldn't affect you one way or the other. I think that much energy should be saved for the people who straddle parking places, or park "on the line"

It is just a pet peeve. If you look at the majority of people that back into a parking spot they are.

1 - Exotic car drivers, i.e. Lexus/BMW/Benz/Vette drivers who are compensating.
2 - F&F ricer types that back their 1995 rusty Honda Civic with a HUGE noisy fart can exhaust. This comprises adolescent and 40yr old adolescent males.
3 - Union folks.

Here at my work it is a mixture of white collar and union laborers. The union guys back in while the white collar pull into a space.

I despise people that take up two parking spots especially if they have a P.O.S. If you dont want your car hit, park in the very back of the lot. I also despise people that park next to my new Silverado when I park in the very back of the lot.

[stchman]

I did mention previously that I live in England, not America.

Its more common to see smaller cars here - though we do have a fair few 4x4s, our 4x4s are probably far smaller than American 4x4s. (hummer's/humvee's tend to have a very hard time on our roads)



Maybe this is an American issue, also Ive never seen an angled car park in my life.

You did not need to, I can read Manchester, UK under your avatar.

I guess that the culture in Europe is very different. I gather that it is unusual to pull forward into a spot.

[toupeiro]

It is just a pet peeve. If you look at the majority of people that back into a parking spot they are.

1 - Exotic car drivers, i.e. Lexus/BMW/Benz/Vette drivers who are compensating.
2 - F&F ricer types that back their 1995 rusty Honda Civic with a HUGE noisy fart can exhaust. This comprises adolescent and 40yr old adolescent males.
3 - Union folks.

Here at my work it is a mixture of white collar and union laborers. The union guys back in while the white collar pull into a space.

I despise people that take up two parking spots especially if they have a P.O.S. If you dont want your car hit, park in the very back of the lot. I also despise people that park next to my new Silverado when I park in the very back of the lot.

Well, the union laborers probably learned it through the same program I did. Our company uses the SMITH driving system (http://www.smith-system.com/) with all fleet vehicles, which we have to do yearly safety courses to stay current. In those courses, they really tout first move forward. If available, they always suggest to "pull through" the parking space if the one directly behind it is open. If it is not, they recommend backing into the space, and give you specific guidelines to follow while backing into the space. You are also tested on this. Its a really good program, if your work offers it, I recommend that people take it.

[perlluver]

I try to back into a spot whenever I can, because I drive Semi Trucks for a living, and like to keep my backing skills sharp. I know a car is a lot smaller, but it still helps when I back in.

[macogw]

I don't see how you could have a pet peeve about this. It shouldn't affect you one way or the other. I think that much energy should be saved for the people who straddle parking places, or park "on the line"

Oh yes. Though I was rather amused (and a bit shocked) to find that if I center my car in my parking space, and the next vehicle over is centered properly as well, some people consider that a problem. Specifically, this person couldn't figure out how to walk between the two cars because of her girth. At that point, I was thinking she ought to be walking rather than driving so she could get a bit of exercise and fit between parked cars again. It's quite healthy. And being unable to fit between properly-parked cars is certainly not healthy. It's a sign of too much driving and not enough walking. Her friend had to back it out for her to be able to get in. I doubt you see this anywhere other than here (America).

The rise in over-wide vehicles also creates a problem. I think we ought to have extra-wide parking spots at the far end of the lot. This would keep the Hummers out of the way (so they're not parking across the lines) and forces those in need of exercise to get some on the way to the store's door.

[xpod]

Parking in a parking lot is a whole lot different to parking on a road with the cars parked nose to tail along the kerb.Getting into a space only a few inches longer than your car is nigh on impossible going forwards so reversing in is the only way.

[toupeiro]

I decided to go to one of these. Best decision I ever made. Parking isn't so much of a problem these days.

http://bp1.blogger.com/_WUBGslbDfjY/SGm6C2uTxDI/AAAAAAAAAEc/ZEdOavlLz9I/s1600-h/leaned_450.jpg

[blastus]

If the stall is not open on the other end and you have a rear-wheel drive, if you back up into the stall it will make your vehicle very difficult to steal with a common tow truck.

[Ozor Mox]

I sometimes reverse into parking spaces for two reasons. Firstly if the space is tight, reversing backwards gives you more control over the car because the front wheels turn. Secondly it can make it a lot easier to get out.

I can't understand why anyone would have a problem with this way of parking. In fact, I've always had the opinion that the people that only park front first are those that don't have the control or spacial awareness to reverse into a space.

[Jose Catre-Vandis]

In agreement with several posts. Reversing into a parking space provides more directional control, the difficult bit being ones spatial awareness using mirrors and looking behind etc! Thus it appears easier to reverse out of a space as you have more space to manoeuvre.

For me, it all depends. When out shopping it makes sense to drive forwards into a space, providing easy access to the boot for all that shopping (only if I take the wife :)). Also you generally cannot get shopping trolleys/carts between parked vehicles. If not shopping, I will usually reverse in (partly to annoy others - for the OP :)) or drive through. I always reverse into my drive at night, makes for a more seemly and positive departure the following day (psychology at work here :)) when parking on the street, parallel to the road, reversing also makes for a much neater park, you can get a ticket for being too far from the kerb, which can happen if parking in forwards. Patience is the final issue with parking/leaving a space, be prepared to wait until your path is clear, especially when reversing out into the traffic lane, other road users and pedestrians pay little or no attention, or show no manners when you try to park, rise above it, and show them that you have road sense and manners instead :)

[oldsoundguy]

I really do not care, but as I stated before ... most insurance claims filed for parking lot damage involves someone backing OUT of a parking space .. not backing IN! (ask your agent!)

My gripe is the able bodied that park in the handicapped spaces to "make a quick run" into the liquor store in the mall.

I chauffeur my handicapped brother around a lot, and it is always one of those or some 350 pounder that walks away from the car (make that waddles away) and then takes the one motorized chair left that is intended for those that can NOT walk. No sticker or tag on their vehicle indicating a recognized handicap.
Being morbidly obese is not a recognized handicap.

[Tamlynmac]

OMG, now we have a driving system (Smith Driving System). Whats next a walking system? I've been driving for many years (learned to drive in LA) and IMHO the best driving system is "patience". Leave early and don't race to your intended location. Watch everyone else as many of them aren't watching you. Defensive driving is the most successful. How many times have you driven behind someone talking on a cell, looking at map, putting on makeup, ect. or multiples. Instead of driving they endeavor multitask.

Backing up into a space or pulling stright in doesn't make any difference. Both require a backing manuver. If someone is incapable of backing up safely, it won't make any difference. I noticed recently many states don't require driving tests. I truly believe everyone should pass a written and driving test each time their licence expires. This would at least force everyone to review the rules and prove that their capable of basic driving skills. Every driver should be able to pass a basic driving test that includes parrell parking and backing up - if not they shouldn't be issued a licence.

[mike1772]

I usually find that people that think they are exceptionally "cool" back into a parking spot. I guess they are saying "Hey, look at me I am proficient at using the reverse gear".


It is much easier to drive out rather than back out. More so for people who are NOT proficient at using the reverse gear. I tend to find (and this is a major pet peeve of mine) that most people who back out onto a road do not back into their lane - rather they back across the entire road (both lanes) and correct it by going forward. This does not happen when they drive forward out of their driveway. In a parking lot - it is easier to drive out as you can easily see (even in a small car) around the large SUV that is often parked beside you. Backing out - you are partway out of your parking space before you can truly see - and taking it on faith that the other person looking for a space will see you and react (and in fact give up their right of way to you).

I don't back in often - but if the spot in front of me is empty I will pull forward so I can drive out easily. I do back into my driveway from time to time.

[mike1772]

Forklifts were designed to be maneuverable in reverse, modern autos are not. Although when I drove a forklift I used reverse to just get the pallet off of the truck. I then turned around and drove FORWARD. Forklifts are also designed to hold several tons at a substantial height. You cannot compare a forklift to a car except they usually both have 4 wheels.

How fast are you driving in a parking lot? At parking lot speeds my car doesn't maneuver any worse in reverse. If it did I'd back in every time else I'd need a spotter in the parking lot when reversing out of a parking spot.

[handy]

I couldn't be bothered reading much of this thread.

But I do back in usually.

Why do I do it?

Because the cars around my parking space are usually stationary, (there may sometimes be a car also moving in or out of an adjoining parking space). When I leave my parking space I have far more vision when moving in the direction that my body is facing than if I were reversing. So I consider that I am far less likely to be involved in one of the many car park bumps if I am entering a traffic thoroughfare facing forwards with an easy 200 degree viewing range.

Like it or lump it!

[jdong]

Typically I don't do this in public because loading stuff into my trunk is far less convenient when another car potentially is going to be right up against the rear of mine.

However, one case where reverse parking is preferred, at one of my friends houses we often meet for parties that last well into the night. We have to park on a side of the lawn, and at 2AM in the morning the reverse lights do not provide adequate lighting to see obstacles well (there's a few slender trees and a mailbox, and on one side there's a trench/ditch too!). As you can imagine, after a few "interesting incidents" over the years, we come in and park reverse during the last few hours of daylight and that way at night we have bright headlights to guide us out safely.


Overall, given that the driver is experienced in reverse-parking, I don't feel that there is much of a speed difference in forward and reverse parking, personally. I doubt one uses, or for that matter should be using, the limits of maneuverability of their car in a parking lot :)

[cammin]

If the stall is not open on the other end and you have a rear-wheel drive, if you back up into the stall it will make your vehicle very difficult to steal with a common tow truck.

It's not much of an obstacle. You just drag it out of the space, then grab it by the back end. Repo guys do it all the time.

[samjh]

I'm a backer-upper, except if I need to load/unload cargo.


I usually find that people that think they are exceptionally "cool" back into a parking spot. I guess they are saying "Hey, look at me I am proficient at using the reverse gear".

I also notice that BMW/Lexus/Benz or Fast & Furious types do it. They are too cool for words.A lot of police and ambulance drivers are taught to reverse into parking spaces for safety reasons. See below.


Another friend of mine always backs into his garage.

I have asked backer uppers why and they say it is safer. SAFER!!!!!! ***!!!!!

Another said they can leave quicker. Are you robbing a bank and need to make a fast getaway?Leaving quickly is a silly reason for most of us.

However, it is generally accepted by driving experts that reversing into parking spaces are much safer than reversing out.

When you try to reverse out, visibility is blocked by cars beside you. YOU might not experience the problem yourself, but plenty of other people do. When reversing out of a parking space, you need to be able observe passing pedestrians, bicycles, trolleys, cars, and whatever else might happen to cross your car's path. It's pretty difficult to do that when your view is blocked by two or three cars to either side of yours, and your viewpoint is more than half way into the parking space.

When you are driving out of a parking space in the forward direction, your viewpoint is closer to the road/open, so visibility is less affected. Therefore it is safer.

As for reversing into a parking space being dangerous, it isn't. Any competent driver should be able to reverse into a parking space between two non-moving cars. When reversing into a parking space, there is much lower chance that a moving hazard will cross the path of your car. When pulling out of a parking space, the chances of moving hazards crossing your path - and at a higher speed - is much greater, so you need better visibility for that. That visibility is easier to attain if your reversed into the car park, and then pull out by driving forward.

[cammin]

I really do not care, but as I stated before ... most insurance claims filed for parking lot damage involves someone backing OUT of a parking space .. not backing IN! (ask your agent!)

Because the people who get into an accident pulling into a space, quickly find another space, then tell their agent someone hit them while they were parked.



The proper way to pull into a space is with a handbrake 180 or 270 degree turn. Depending on whether the space is a perpendicular or parallel one. Everyone else is doing it wrong.

[jdong]

As for reversing into a parking space being dangerous, it isn't. Any competent driver should be able to reverse into a parking space between two non-moving cars. When reversing into a parking space, there is much lower chance that a moving hazard will cross the path of your car. When pulling out of a parking space, the chances of moving hazards crossing your path - and at a higher speed - is much greater, so you need better visibility for that. That visibility is easier to attain if your reversed into the car park, and then pull out by driving forward.

That is a great point. Particularly with SUVs and these new design large sedans, rearward visibility is getting worse and worse as the pillars get beefed up more and more to deal with IIHS side-impact standards. I've got ultrasonic reverse sensors on my 300C but I think I would've had at least one close call if it weren't for that. Backing up it's deceiving what you believe your field-of-view is and what your actual field of view is.

[Sporkman]

I have asked backer uppers why and they say it is safer. SAFER!!!!!! ***!!!!!


I believe it is safer, as I'm often seeing close calls in parking lots, with somebody backing out & almost getting whacked by a car whizzing down the aisle. When you pull out front-end first, you can see those cars coming a bit better.



Another said they can leave quicker. Are you robbing a bank and need to make a fast getaway?


In the army they call it "combat parking"... At least they did about 20 years ago when I was in.

[steveneddy]

I like to back in and use two parking spaces.

[Polygon]

I like to back in and use two parking spaces.

then your a prime candidate for some person to slap an "I PARK LIKE AN IDIOT" bumper sticker on your car. If you require two spaces because your so afraid that your car is going to get dented slightly, you need to rethink your priorities.

[jdong]

Sigh, children, let's keep it respectful, please.

[Polygon]

its the truth. Ive had a friend in real life who parked in two spaces, and got a 'i park like an idiot' bumper sticker stuck on his car. It wasn't that hard to get off, but seriously. you don't need to use more then one spot =)

[jdong]

Well here at UbuntuForums we'd hope there is a more polite way of saying it :)

[handy]

I like to back in and use two parking spaces.

:lolflag:

Way to go, we do less damage to those cars parked beside us when we open our doors. More room for unloading shopping trolleys too.

[billgoldberg]

I have asked backer uppers why and they say it is safer. SAFER!!!!!! ***!!!!!

It's safer for you as the driver and for other people.

If you back into a spot, you see the traffic as you go in and out.

If you have to back out of a parking spot, you have a harder time seeing the traffic.

So yes, it's safer.

[JohnFH]

:lolflag:

Way to go, we do less damage to those cars parked beside us when we open our doors. More room for unloading shopping trolleys too.

Absolutely agree. Also that extra space gives you more visibility so it's safer that way. I also normally park in the disabled parking areas as they are closer and more convenient, even though I'm not disabled. Setting aside spaces for the disabled, especially the easier spaces, is just discrimination against able-bodied people.

[tdrusk]

Less people back into a parking spot than you think. Some of those people just pull through to the parking spot in front of them, thus appearing that they backed in.

[pp.]

If you back into a spot, you see the traffic as you go in and out.

If you have to back out of a parking spot, you have a harder time seeing the traffic.

So yes, it's safer.

Not to speak of other people using the road. In some countries, the roads are used by cyclists as well. Colliding with a car which backs up out of a parking space even at a brisk walking pace is more than a bit surprising for a cyclist.


I also normally park in the disabled parking areas as they are closer and more convenient, even though I'm not disabled. Setting aside spaces for the disabled, especially the easier spaces, is just discrimination against able-bodied people.

If that's true then you are a bit disabled.

[JohnFH]

If that's true then you are a bit disabled.

It was tongue-in-cheek. This thread is really silly. How can anyone get so worked up about which direction other people park their cars in? I smell a troll.

[pp.]

This thread is really silly.

True.

[PartisanEntity]

Regardless if you back into a space or forward into a space the parking space size remains the same so that argument is ridiculous at best.

You sound like you got your driving licence yesterday.

Here is an image (http://www.flickr.com/photos/31301250@N04/2970416042/) of typical parking lots in Vienna, sideways to the road. Now how would you park your car in such a space forwards?

Parking backwards is efficient and requires less manoeuvring, and it is faster.

I would like to see you park in to a sideways parking lot that has just enough space for the length of your car other than backwards.

Not only will it look ridiculous, it will also hold up traffic for several minutes while you attempt to manoeuvre your car back and for inch by inch until it might fit.

Even driving schools here teach you to park backwards.

So it really boils down to where you live and how parking lots in your country a laid down in relation to the road.

p.s. parking in to a lot like this (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lisiperner/441831668/) is a completely different story.

[Tomosaur]

Reverse in, drive out. If you can't see the advantages of this, you probably shouldn't be driving. Reversing means you have a limited view of what you're reversing towards, and it means you have to check around yourself more often. Reversing into a parking spot is generally pretty easy, as stationary cars aren't likely to pull a weird maneuver or do something stupid. Reversing out into traffic is a whole different ball game.

I would advise you to just be patient if and when somebody decides to reverse. Getting frustrated behind the wheel is a fast-track to an accident.

[oldsoundguy]

Why do you think you BACK IN to parallel park? Better control and the vehicle is MADE to do that!

What we have here is a kid that does not drive and knows nothing about it. ASSUMING something that is not true .. that people are "showing off" by backing into a parking space. (kids see what they want to see, not what is actually there!)

As said before, most corporate fleets have instructed their drivers to do JUST THAT or to "pull through and head end out" as it saves them a bundle on insurance claims.
Hard to see when backing INTO traffic for one, and then there is the idiot running through the lot at 20mph rushing to get that parking space just past you!

[toupeiro]

OMG, now we have a driving system (Smith Driving System). Whats next a walking system?

Well considering how most people drive in LA, I'll take that at face value...

This OMG we have a driving system, has been around over 50 years and is a supplement to anything else you've already learned. If you somehow think supplements can't help you because "youve been driving for years, and learned in LA", well .. I think the problem has been identified. :)

[RiceMonster]

I go straight in because I find it easier to back out than in. Seriously though, I can see why people would back in, because then you can just drive right out.


Less people back into a parking spot than you think. Some of those people just pull through to the parking spot in front of them, thus appearing that they backed in.

Yeah, I do that all the time. That's the easiest way to park overall, IMO.

[civillian]

Thats the easier way, but it's still easier to reverse park, since you have better control over the vehicle when you back in (you have to steer less to get the end your backing in going the way you want it to) and it's safer when you have to pull in.

It's the advised way to park when you leran in the UK (unless it's paralell, in which cas you have to reverse anyway).

[screaminj3sus]

I back into parking spots because its easier to get out...

its not because I think I'm "cool"

[lukjad]

This is really annoying. Call it a pet peeve of mine. I have often wondered why people do it. I do it when I am unloading my pickup truck into the garage.

I usually find that people that think they are exceptionally "cool" back into a parking spot. I guess they are saying "Hey, look at me I am proficient at using the reverse gear".

I also notice that BMW/Lexus/Benz or Fast & Furious types do it. They are too cool for words.

I was at a friend's car club and EVERYONE backed into their parking spot. They were so cool, ice cubes had nothing on them.

Another friend of mine always backs into his garage.

I have asked backer uppers why and they say it is safer. SAFER!!!!!! ***!!!!!

Another said they can leave quicker. Are you robbing a bank and need to make a fast getaway?

I guess they think the front end of their car looks way better than the back.

Oh well, just my rant.
I do know that it used to be the norm if not the law. (I don't drive.) I saw once a sort of mockumentary about pet peeves and one of the peeves was mentioning that the proper way to park is by backing in so that when you leave you don't back into traffic. That makes sense to me.

[funchords]

This is really annoying. Call it a pet peeve of mine. I have often wondered why people do it. I do it when I am unloading my pickup truck into the garage.

I have asked backer uppers why and they say it is safer. SAFER!!!!!! ***!!!!!
Mark me down as "Safer."

On of my best high-school friends lost a little sister because their dad backed over her in the driveway. Perhaps as a result of this, I have always felt safer backing into a space that I know is clear of pedestrians and leaving a space with a good view ahead.

That was 27 years ago. In that time, it's become a second nature skill (I don't even think about it). It's not showing off. In fact, I know it's harder for those who aren't practiced in it, and it may be less safe due to their undeveloped judgment about the space around the rear of their vehicle (they might hit a pole, or another vehicle to the rear or either rear quarter of their vehicle).

I see much better toward the front of my vehicle than I do from the back.

When approaching a parking spot, I can survey the area and then back in, having first obtained a very good view. When I leave the spot in the forward direction, I have a much better view of the pavement ahead and can move more safely.

The "time savings" argument doesn't work. It takes longer to back into a space than it does to drive forward. So any savings I gained by leaving more quickly was already erased by the time it already took to park that way.

My advice -- live and let live. I don't see forward parkers as unsafe or slow. I sometimes need to drive-in as well, such when a crowded lot or a street-side parking area is striped diagonally. Backing out of that causes me some extra apprehension, but that just causes me to be even more careful -- that's a good thing.

Robb

[Tamlynmac]

toupeiro (http://ubuntuforums.org/member.php?u=223612)
Re: People that back into a parking spot.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tamlynmac http://ubuntuforums.org/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?p=6077603#post6077603)
OMG, now we have a driving system (Smith Driving System). Whats next a walking system?

Well considering how most people drive in LA, I'll take that at face value...

This OMG we have a driving system, has been around over 50 years and is a supplement to anything else you've already learned. If you somehow think supplements can't help you because "youve been driving for years, and learned in LA", well .. I think the problem has been identified. :smile:

Or just maybe some people need constant reassurance that a driving system will improve on their own ineptitude. My point of learning to drive in LA was simple - so many diverse driving situations and many different cultures driving together. This make for a good teacher. As a young person I learned patience and tolerance. This has paid big dividends over my many years of driving. Of course, I would defer to someone who knows a system that actually assures 0 accidents or violations. So far I've never found such a system. IMHO the problem is based on individual performance not a system. If you read my entire response, I indicated that everyone should be tested each time their license comes up for renewal. I still believe that good driving skills, like many other activities in life are directly related to an individuals state of mind and abilities. No program will solve the issue of poor performance unless the program consists of constant observation and testing.
Supplements are only effective if basic safety skills and techniques already exist. As in a reminder / re-enforcement., Ah, but what do I know I've only been driving for 45 years without any accidents that were directly related to my performance. As a matter of fact I haven't had any issues for over 15 years and I've done extensive travel as a field engineer without being enrolled in a driving system. How can that be - maybe the actual identity of the problem is related to ability, reaction time and attention instead of a driving system that simply re-enforces these attributes.

[northern lights]

All standard passenger vehicles come with two axles and front-axle-steering.

When cornering, a car is thus always turning about the middle of it's front axle.

When exiting a parking lot with cars parked on either side of you, the earliest point around which the car can follow an arc without bumping into one of the nearby cars is half an axle's length out of the parking space.

For this to happen, the front axle must be half an axle's length out of the parking space midway through the turn, i.e. at 45 degrees to the parking position.
Clearly this can be done much earlier when exiting forward rather than backing out of the lot.
Hence, less space is required in front of the lot for a single turn exit, if the car has been backed in.

While it's certainly possible that you know people that believe backing in a parking lot to be "show-offable" action and do it for the cause, this does not diminish the fact that backing into a parking spot is in most situations the better option.

[bwhite82]

To Europeans: this is the type of parking lot the OP is referring to:

http://torontoist.com/attachments/toronto_vald/2007_08_31_parking_lot.jpg

These are much more common here in the States than in Europe. I spent two years in Germany and traveled to many other European countries while there and can say that driving/parking in Europe is painful (narrow streets, very cramped parking areas). We Americans take our space for granted.

Anyways, I usually do not back into a space. I agree that it is safer to do so. I've just never encountered any problems backing out of a space.

[JohnFH]

Reversing into the space is best ...

How to park:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gseOmv0dTAM

How NOT to park:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYqPYRFukvM

[northern lights]

To Europeans: this is the type of parking lot the OP is referring to:

http://torontoist.com/attachments/toronto_vald/2007_08_31_parking_lot.jpg

These are much more common here in the States than in Europe. I spent two years in Germany and traveled to many other European countries while there and can say that driving/parking in Europe is painful (narrow streets, very cramped parking areas). We Americans take our space for granted.

Anyways, I usually do not back into a space. I agree that it is safer to do so. I've just never encountered any problems backing out of a space.
Driving in European cities is on average more of a hassle than is the case in North America. Granted.

But it's not like European lots are that different...
Come on, are you saying Europeans needed your example picture to imagine a parking lot???

[bwhite82]

Driving in European cities is on average more of a hassle than is the case in North America. Granted.

But it's not like European lots are that different...
Come on, are you saying Europeans needed your example picture to imagine a parking lot???

Hmm...didn't mean to offend. I read a post previous by someone (in Europe) who seemed to think that the OP was referring to curb-style parking.

Cramped space is the only thing I found a hassle about Europe. Otherwise I found driving in Europe MUCH more pleasant. There is generally more courtesy on the road and sane speed limits if any limit at all (vs. 25mph here on some 4 lane roads).

In Germany for instance, if someone behind you wants to pass you on the Autobahn, they will flick their head-lamps at you -- and here's the kicker -- most will kindly oblige and move to the right lane. Try that here in the States. Ha! Would love if it was so...

[OldDirtyTurtle]

I got started backing into spots when I was on a wildlfire engine crew about 10 years ago. I guess I just never shook the habit.

I don't always back in, but on average, I back in more often (or pull through).

[toupeiro]

toupeiro (http://ubuntuforums.org/member.php?u=223612)
Re: People that back into a parking spot.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tamlynmac http://ubuntuforums.org/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?p=6077603#post6077603)
OMG, now we have a driving system (Smith Driving System). Whats next a walking system?

Well considering how most people drive in LA, I'll take that at face value...

This OMG we have a driving system, has been around over 50 years and is a supplement to anything else you've already learned. If you somehow think supplements can't help you because "youve been driving for years, and learned in LA", well .. I think the problem has been identified. :smile:

Or just maybe some people need constant reassurance that a driving system will improve on their own ineptitude. My point of learning to drive in LA was simple - so many diverse driving situations and many different cultures driving together. This make for a good teacher. As a young person I learned patience and tolerance. This has paid big dividends over my many years of driving. Of course, I would defer to someone who knows a system that actually assures 0 accidents or violations. So far I've never found such a system. IMHO the problem is based on individual performance not a system. If you read my entire response, I indicated that everyone should be tested each time their license comes up for renewal. I still believe that good driving skills, like many other activities in life are directly related to an individuals state of mind and abilities. No program will solve the issue of poor performance unless the program consists of constant observation and testing.
Supplements are only effective if basic safety skills and techniques already exist. As in a reminder / re-enforcement., Ah, but what do I know I've only been driving for 45 years without any accidents that were directly related to my performance. As a matter of fact I haven't had any issues for over 15 years and I've done extensive travel as a field engineer without being enrolled in a driving system. How can that be - maybe the actual identity of the problem is related to ability, reaction time and attention instead of a driving system that simply re-enforces these attributes.

Yes, that has a lot to do with it, and also maybe you have been incredibly lucky. No matter how good you are, if you rate yourself on the fact that you drive in a big city and haven't been in an accident, that doesn't make you a good driver, that makes you a fortunate one.

And, I live right next door to LA, I commute to LA a lot, and deal with Commuters to LA every day, and the majority of the drivers in LA are the most inconsiderate and offensive drivers I've ever shared the road with in the US. I think the average driver in LA could use some supplemental drivers education.

I'm willing to put a substantial bet on the fact that 45 years ago, LA traffic and drivers aren't a shadow of what they are today.. Take your driving skills in LA to a city over 400 years old, where mass transit wasn't even a consideration in design, and see if its still as applicable. If you can drive safely in both conditions, that is a much better sign of diverse driving...

Anyhow, I think its ridiculous you're putting down a system without knowing anything about it, like the fact that many of driving laws we have today were made laws based on statistics published by the SMITH driving program. You're entitled to your opinion, of course, but I don't see it as a very constructive one.

[oldsoundguy]

operators of large fleets of vehicles such as the power companies and telephone companies have used the Smith system for years. They found that re-enforcing the good habits and discouraging the bad habits not only has an effect of less accidents with their fleet vehicles (thus reducing their costs and increasing their bottom line) but the effect carries over into the personal driving of the employees.

I learned to drive in the LA area LONG ago and thought I knew it all until I hit the roads of ALASKA and had to learn to CONTROL a car under some pretty adverse conditions.

I have driven cars and trucks all over the North American continent .. the worst places to drive when I was doing so were:
LA (because EVERYONE has to get there an hour ago), New York (because every cab thinks they have the right of way) and Chicago (were people just stop for no apparent reason).

Good runner up candidates are Montreal and Mexico City (where they play dodge'em with old Volkswagens)

Show me somebody that thinks they are a great driver and I will show you an accident waiting to happen. Even RACE CAR DRIVERS have to go to driving schools!

[Tyche]

Sorry, I can't leave this one alone.

As a person who has driven every class of vehicle from bicycle to tractor-semitrailer, and also a Transportation Coordinator, I can tell you exactly why I back into parking spaces.

1. Pull up next to a parking space and jack the vehicle 45 degrees away from it. As you do so, you have the opportunity to SEE what's in that space, and NOT hit something or somebody (can I mention 5 year old kid, here?). The last thing you've done is visually check the parking space before backing into it. But, if you back out of a parking space, you've had to get in the vehicle, start it up, and put it in gear - a matter of from 30 seconds to 1 1/2 minutes, depending. In that time that 5 year old kid that doesn't show up in your mirrors could be walking behind your vehicle. This is magnified when driving bus or either straight or semi- truck.

2. Tinted windows. When trying to see through 2 thicknesses of tinted windows (both sides of the vehicle next to you), visability is drastically reduced, in some cases to zero. That means that you're backing out of a space blind.

Nothing cool about it. Just smart, defensive driving.

[mips]

I must be super cool 8-)

In public parking lots/garages I there are usually two perking spaced directly opposite each other unless you are parking against the pavement/sidewalk. I will find two open spots and just drive through the one and park in the opposite one. It's much easier to leave and you can see what's coming when you exit. If I cannot find two open spots I will reverse in.

At home I don't bother as I have driveway and sidewalk space to to reverse-turn and exit.

[Paqman]

I have asked backer uppers why and they say it is safer. SAFER!!!!!! ***!!!!!


That makes sense. Leaving a parking spot is more dangerous than entering one. You've got better visibility if you drive out forwards than if you back out.

[ugm6hr]

Nothing cool about it. Just smart, defensive driving.

Exactly.

The UK Highway code allows reversing around a corner from a busy road into a side road. Just like reversing into a "quiet" parking spot (not reversing from a parking spot into the main thoroughfare).

[gn2]

Yesterday at the supermarket I watched two women reverse out of their parking bays into each other.
A fist fight then ensued.

"Nose-in" parking at the supermarket is popular because it makes loading the shopping into the rear of the car easier.

[handy]

If it wasn't for the OP's post count, I would contend that he/she isn't old enough to drive, & has set out a bait for the grown ups to amuse itself... :lolflag:

[stchman]

Ok, to set the record straight I have been driving for well over 20 years. I have backed into a spot, but I drive pickups and they are extremely long so therefore the possibility or bumping the person behind you is more likely.

I have never had a problem backing out of a parking spot.

I am amused that if the person backs into a parking spot and bumps the car behind that the person is an idiot and if they back out of a spot they are an idiot.

Backing in tiny European cars is probably far easier than a 20 foot pickup. I have seen numerous people taking a long time to back into a parking spot. I have then seen them bump the car behind them. They them go to a different spot and don't take responsibility for their actions.

[handy]

Horses for courses.

Some vehicles are not as suitable as others when it comes to reversing anywhere.

The same goes for people. :)

[samjh]

Ok, to set the record straight I have been driving for well over 20 years. I have backed into a spot, but I drive pickups and they are extremely long so therefore the possibility or bumping the person behind you is more likely.You have to drive in accordance with conditions of the road, vehicle, etc. If you feel unsafe reversing your truck into a parking space, then that's for you to consider.

Reversing into parking spaces is advisable in general, but not in all situations.


I have never had a problem backing out of a parking spot.Again, this is a personal thing. In general, it is safer to drive forward out of a parking space than to reverse out, and reversing into a parking space is equally safe as driving forward into it.


I am amused that if the person backs into a parking spot and bumps the car behind that the person is an idiot and if they back out of a spot they are an idiot.Bumping into a stationery car means that the driver either has poor control, or has bad spatial judgement. The problem with reversing out of a parking space is that the stuff you might bump into are not necessarily stationary: cars, pedestrians, cyclists, trolleys, etc. are all moving past the rear of your car.


Backing in tiny European cars is probably far easier than a 20 foot pickup. I have seen numerous people taking a long time to back into a parking spot. I have then seen them bump the car behind them. They them go to a different spot and don't take responsibility for their actions.Taking excessively long time to reverse into a parking space is a skill issue. Generally a competent driver should be able to reverse into a parking space in 10-20 seconds. More practice makes it quicker. Even in my very small apartment parking space, I can usually reverse into it in about 5 seconds clean.

I used to drive an 11-seater bus, which was not so easy to reverse into car parks (partly because most parking spaces weren't big enough to fit it in), but I had more close encounters reversing out than reversing in. ;)

[worx101]

Bumping into a stationery car means that the driver either has poor control, or has bad spatial judgement. The problem with reversing out of a parking space is that the stuff you might bump into are not necessarily stationary: cars, pedestrians, cyclists, trolleys, etc. are all moving past the rear of your car.

Sadly I have horrible spatial judgement :( Its one reason I have hated driving since I moved to Singapore... EVERYONE backs in :(

Usually, I have to dig and dig to find a spot with two empty lots next to one another so that I can back in... Because it is impossible to pull in forwards anyway and even more of a nightmare to back out...

Why I promised myself that if I even buy a car here, it will the absolute smallest one I can find :P

[pp.]

I have never had a problem backing out of a parking spot.

If backing out of a parking spot leads to a problem, it's usually a problem of the other party, not of the so-called driver.

[dusti09]

The problem remains...What we have here is a lack of common sense.

Backing in: full view of space before backing. Signaling that you intend to do this is a good way to let others know and pulling in the opposite direction also works as well as sets you up to reverse because your rear end is almost facing the stall.

Backing out: From the time it takes some people to get into their car and finally decide to leave can be significant. A lot of things can change in a matter of seconds. You have no idea what you may be backing out into - people, carts, kids, speeders, etc. And just because your reverse lights work does not mean pedestrians or anyone else will stop to let you out. They expect you to see them and wait for them.


Basically, some people are retarded and should not drive - ever. Why don't they stay home and spend more quality time together? It would make the world a better palce.

This is my opinion and I have a right to say it. You don't like it? Park It!

[dmizer]

This is really annoying. Call it a pet peeve of mine. I have often wondered why people do it. I do it when I am unloading my pickup truck into the garage.

I usually find that people that think they are exceptionally "cool" back into a parking spot. I guess they are saying "Hey, look at me I am proficient at using the reverse gear".

I also notice that BMW/Lexus/Benz or Fast & Furious types do it. They are too cool for words.

I was at a friend's car club and EVERYONE backed into their parking spot. They were so cool, ice cubes had nothing on them.

Another friend of mine always backs into his garage.

I have asked backer uppers why and they say it is safer. SAFER!!!!!! ***!!!!!

Another said they can leave quicker. Are you robbing a bank and need to make a fast getaway?

I guess they think the front end of their car looks way better than the back.

Oh well, just my rant.

All I can say is ... never ever come to Japan because EVERYONE backs in to park.

Because, it actually IS safer to back in for parking because you have a much better field of view as you leave, so you're less likely to have an accident as you leave. If you reverse out, you're reversing into your blind spot.

Also, since you have to pass the parking spot in order to back in, it gives you an opportunity to see the full space. If you just drive in, you're essentially heading into a blind spot. How many times have you almost run into a motorcycle or small sports car in a space you thought was open?

How would a vehicle unsuited for reverse parking be any more suitable for reversing OUT of a parking spot?

[lethalfang]

Also, due to the sideview mirrors, I get a much better sense how close I am to the 2 cars next to me when I back in. I cannot make use of those sideview mirrors when I drive into a narrow spot.

[dmizer]

Doh. Zombie thread.

Thank you all for participating.