When it comes to the Ontario Graduated Licence System, there is a plethora of rules you need to know. One of these is when it comes to parking safely on a hill in Ontario. Unlike normal parking, uphill and downhill parking have their own set of rules that must be followed to ensure the safety of you and those around you. Whether you’re a new driver or someone looking to refresh themselves when it comes to the rules of the road, we have you covered with everything you need to know when it comes to uphill and downhill parking.
Uphill and Downhill Parking: The Basics
When it comes to parking on an uphill or downhill incline, you can categorize them into four different categories. This includes both uphill and downhill parking, with and without curbs. Just as parking on a flat surface is important, it is essential to note that obstructing traffic, ignoring signage, or blocking a fire hydrant can result in a parking ticket. This can affect your insurance and be a costly mistake.
Parking Uphill With A Curb
Parking uphill with a curb requires you to follow a few rules to do it safely. The most important rule is to make sure you turn your wheels towards the curb or edge of the road. This is critical because, in the event your car begins to roll down the hill, it would be moving towards the curb, not into traffic.
When parking uphill with a curb, it is essential to park as close to the curb as possible. This prevents your vehicle from rolling or drifting into traffic when you’re away from it. You should always try to avoid parking on inclines that are too steep, as this can put strain on your car and make it more challenging to get out when it’s time to leave.
Let’s take a look at some steps to take when parking uphill with a curb:
- Approach the curb while being mindful of pedestrians, cars, and objects ahead of you.
- Turn your steering wheel to the left so that your wheels turn away from the curb and towards the road. This results in the curb acting like a block to catch your tires.
- Shift your parking brake on while your food is still on the brake. Always use your parking brake; it will help prevent your car from rolling down the hill in the event your wheels fail.
- If you are driving manually, remember to shift your car into first. If you are driving an automatic, shift into park.
Parking Uphill Without A Curb
Uphill parking without a curb works similarly, though a few rules are adjusted. If there is no curb where you are parking, make sure you turn your wheels to the right. This ensures that, in the event your car begins to roll, it will not roll off the road. Remember to use your handbrake and switch into park, or first gear if you are driving manually!
Parking Downhill With A Curb
When you’re parking downhill on a slope, the rules of the road tend to differ slightly. First and foremost, you will want to turn your wheels towards the curb or edge of the road. This way, if your brakes cease to work while the car is unoccupied, you will roll towards the curb rather than into traffic.
To add to this, it is also essential to use your parking brake. This is especially the case when you find yourself on a steep incline. If you are driving in manual, make sure you leave your car in reverse instead of first gear. This is because it will veer your vehicle into the curb instead of traffic.
Last, but certainly not least, make sure to park as close to the curb as possible when you are parking on a downhill slope. This will prevent your car from rolling or drifting into traffic.
Parking Downhill Without A Curb
Downhill parking without a curb is almost identical to parking uphill with a curb. You are going to want to turn your wheels as much as they can go to the right and leave your car in reverse if you happen to be driving a manual transmission vehicle.
Exiting Your Parking Spot on a Hill
When you need to exit from an uphill or downhill parking spot, you are going to want to make sure you put pressure on your brakes and remove your emergency brake. From here, make sure to check your mirrors for any traffic or hazards. Your next step will be to gently step on the gas and release your brakes, slowly driving out of your spot.
Parking 101 In Ontario: Rules Everyone Should Follow
Whether you’re uphill, downhill, or on a flat surface, there are a few basic rules in Ontario that every driver should follow. Even in parking lots, accidents are common due to people not being attentive! Let’s take a look at some of our tips to help you prevent car accidents and keep yourself safe.
- Never park within three metres of a fire hydrant.
- Don’t obstruct (double park) another parked car, road entrance, crosswalk, or sidewalk.
- Always make sure you park within 10 metres of an intersection, 15 metres if there are traffic lights.
- Avoid leaving your car idling.
- Never leave pets or children alone in your car.
- Always make sure you’re checking for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles before opening your door.
- Don’t park on a hill or curved road without having at least 125 metres of vision both ways.
- Always lock your car’s doors to prevent your vehicle from being stolen.
- Be mindful of rules around school and construction zones.
- Don’t park in areas that will obstruct traffic or snow clearing.
At the end of the day, parking on hills is a skill to master as you gain more driving experience. Remember, you need to protect yourself on and off the road with the proper insurance coverage. Contact us below for all of your insurance inquiries or needs!
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