Parking close to a curb without hitting it can be challenging, even for seasoned drivers. Misjudging the distance between your front bumper and the pavement can lead to costly damage. Since it’s not always easy to estimate the clearance, drivers often rely on instinct—but there’s a much better way!
If backing into a space isn’t an option, you’ll need a precise reference point to park safely in front of a curb. Here’s how to do it correctly.
From a distance, it’s difficult to gauge how high the curb actually is. This often results in overconfidence, leading to unpleasant surprises—such as scraping the bumper or damaging the undercarriage. To avoid this, it’s essential to develop a reliable visual marker that helps you stop at just the right moment.
The driver’s side mirror is a key tool in determining how close you are to the curb. The ideal stopping point depends on several factors:
Your height and seating position
The design of your car
The placement of your mirrors
Since every driver and vehicle is different, finding your own reference point is crucial. But don’t worry—it only takes a few minutes to master.
Adjust your seat and mirrors as you normally would for daily driving.
Find an open parking space where you can practice.
Slowly approach the curb while keeping an eye on both the road ahead and your side mirror.
Once you see the line where the curb meets the road appear in your mirror, stop and step out to check the distance.
If there’s still too much space, move forward until you can just see the top of the curb in the mirror. Stop and check again.
Identify which reference point works best for your car, then use it in the future for effortless, damage-free parking.
With just a bit of practice, you’ll develop a foolproof system for stopping at the right moment every time. If you’re ever unsure, simply step out and check—a few extra seconds can save you from costly repairs. Master this technique, and parking near a curb will never be a problem again!
