When parking on a hill, how should your wheels be positioned?

When parking on a hill, it is crucial to position your wheels correctly to prevent the vehicle from rolling away. If you are facing downhill, the correct method is to turn your wheels towards the curb. This positioning allows the vehicle to roll into the curb if it begins to move, thus providing a barrier that can stop the vehicle and prevent it from rolling further downhill.

This practice enhances safety, particularly in areas with steep grades. When the wheels are appropriately turned, gravity works in a way that keeps the car stationary in case of an unintended movement. If a vehicle rolls downhill, having the wheels turned towards the curb helps ensure that the car does not enter the street, reducing the risk of an accident or injury.

Other techniques, such as parking parallel to the road or keeping the wheels straight, do not provide the same level of safety and could result in the vehicle rolling onto the roadway if it were to move. Understanding the proper wheel positioning is essential for all drivers, especially when navigating hilly terrains.