Walk through almost any workplace parking lot and you will see some drivers pulling in nose first and others backing in. Backing into a space takes a little more care when you arrive, but many drivers find it makes leaving easier and safer. Here is a look at the reasoning and a simple way to do it.
Why some drivers back in
The main argument is visibility. When you back into a space, you are reversing into an area you have just driven past and can see. When you leave, you pull forward into the aisle with a clear view of traffic and pedestrians. Backing out of a space, by contrast, means reversing into a busy aisle where cars and people may be hidden by neighboring vehicles.
Other practical benefits include easier access to your trunk from the aisle in some lots, a faster getaway when you are in a hurry and simpler jump-starting if the engine compartment faces the aisle.
When it may not be the best choice
- Busy lots with impatient traffic. Stopping to reverse in can hold up cars behind you.
- Angled spaces. Spaces set at an angle to a one-way aisle are designed for pulling in forward.
- Posted rules. Some lots and garages require head-in parking, often so that license plates or permits face the aisle. Read the signs.
- Front plate requirements. In places that require plates only on the rear, enforcement may need to see that plate.
- Landscaping or walls. Backing exhaust into a shrub bed or building wall may be discouraged.
A simple method for backing in
- Signal and drive past the space, stopping when your rear bumper is about one to two spaces beyond it.
- Check mirrors, blind spots and the area behind you, then shift into reverse.
- Back slowly while turning the wheel toward the space. Watch the side mirror on that side to see the space line come into view.
- As the car enters the space, straighten the wheel and use both side mirrors to center between the lines.
- Stop when the rear wheels are close to the curb stop or the end of the space. A backup camera helps here, but keep checking the mirrors too.
If the angle is wrong, pull forward and try again. A quick correction is better than a crooked park.
Pull-through spaces
Where two empty spaces line up front to front, some drivers simply drive through the first into the second. This gives you the same forward exit without reversing. It only works when both spaces are open and the lot allows it.
Winter considerations
In snow, backing in has an extra advantage: your windshield faces the aisle, which may be cleared before the spaces are. Some drivers also prefer facing out so they can pull straight forward instead of trying to reverse up a snowy incline. Just avoid backing into deep snow at the end of a space where your exhaust could become blocked. Wherever you park, follow the posted rules for that lot or garage.
Practicing Until It Feels Natural
Many drivers avoid backing in simply because they are not used to it. Like any maneuver, it gets easier with a little practice in a low-pressure setting.
- Find an empty section of a large lot where you have permission to practice and the lines are clearly painted.
- Use the same space repeatedly. Approach it from the same direction several times until the turn feels consistent.
- Adjust your starting point. If you keep ending up too close to one side, change how far past the space you stop before reversing. Small changes make a big difference.
- Try both directions. Back into a space on your right, then one on your left. Each uses a different mirror and a different sightline.
- Add a neighbor. Once you are comfortable, practice next to a parked car or a marker so you can judge distance on one side.
Reference points worth learning
Every car is different, but many drivers use a few consistent cues. In the side mirror, the painted line of the space should appear at a steady angle as you swing in. When the line appears parallel to your car in both mirrors, the wheel can be straightened. A backup camera’s guide lines can help you judge where the car will go, but they are only accurate if the camera is clean and the lens is clear of snow and dirt.
Common Mistakes When Backing In
- Stopping too close to the space. If you do not pull far enough past the space, you will have to turn sharply and may clip the neighboring car.
- Watching only the camera. The camera shows what is directly behind you. It does not show a car approaching from the side or a pedestrian walking up the aisle.
- Turning too fast. Backing in should be slow. Move at a crawl and correct as needed.
- Ignoring the front swing. As you reverse and turn, the front of your car swings out into the aisle. Check that the aisle is clear on that side.
- Backing too far. Wheel stops, curbs and walls come up fast. Stop before you feel the bump.
Sharing the aisle while you maneuver
When you signal and stop past a space, drivers behind you may not understand what you are doing. Give them time to notice your reverse lights. If someone pulls up close behind you, it is fine to wave them around or simply wait. Taking a few extra seconds is safer than squeezing a maneuver in under pressure.
Questions About Backing In
Is backing in safer than pulling in forward?
Many drivers find backing in gives better visibility when leaving, since they pull forward into the aisle. The safest method still depends on the lot, the traffic and your comfort with the maneuver.
Why do some lots require head-in parking?
Reasons vary. Some lots need to see a license plate or permit, some want to keep exhaust away from buildings or landscaping, and some designs simply work better with forward parking. Follow the posted rules.
Does backing in help with jump-starting?
With the front of the car facing the aisle, another vehicle can usually pull up closer, making jumper cables easier to reach. Follow your owner’s manual for safe jump-starting steps, and never let the two vehicles touch.
What if I keep ending up crooked?
Pull forward, straighten the wheel and back in again. A second attempt takes only seconds and leaves room for your neighbors.
