Top parking tips

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26 January 2012

Driver training specialist IAM Drive & Survive is offering weekly motoring tips to drivers from its head of training, Simon Elstow. This week he is advising on parking.

  • Park on the left-hand side of the road if possible, and always at night.
  • In a car park, try and reverse into parking spaces as this is safer when driving out of a space, and more fuel efficient as you’ll be manoeuvring with a warm engine.
  • Check your mirrors and over your shoulder frequently – you still need to know what’s going on around you. Don’t just rely on parking sensors to guide you.
  • When looking for a parking place, don’t stop suddenly. Drive slowly past a potential parking space and size it up to see if your car will fit. And if you can’t stop because you have traffic behind you, drive on.
  • When visiting a supermarket or retail park, try and park away from trolley parks and corners to avoid your car being exposed to damage from trolleys.
  • When parking, open your window in car parks and turn off your stereo. You can often hear something before you can see it.

Elstow said: “Parking is an essential part of driving which many people find stressful. Don’t feel pressurised by other drivers waiting for you to park – it’s important to take your time.”

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Notes to editors:

  1. drivingadvice.org.uk
  1. IAM Drive & Survive is a commercial subsidiary of the IAM and promotes occupational driver skills and safety for vehicle fleets businesses. IAM Drive & Survive helps employers achieve their duty of care to employees and reduce road accidents while driving on business. The IAM is the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycle riding and cycling.  The IAM has more than 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, motorcycling and cycling courses.  Our policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.
  2. For information about IAM Drive & Survive phone 0870 120 2910 or visit http://www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk

Media contacts:

IAM Drive & Survive Press Office – 020 8996 9777

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