A Pitch for Reverse Parking at Home

When returning home, backing in is a breeze, thanks to having a 360 view of any approaching pedestrians, bikers, animals, or vehicles. This is great when you’ve got a loaded trunk (groceries, plants, etc.) to carry in.

Backing OUT is another story. When leaving, your view is limited by your mirrors, blind spots, your viewing mobility, shrubbery, etc. Take extra care if you’re on a busier street with pets and/or kids. We’ve all heard the stories of kids hit by cars backing up.

When parked facing the street, you have an unobstructed view to get out fast — helpful when you’re trying to get somewhere on time. We’ve all experienced backing out and having to brake for a car, biker, or pedestrian that we hadn’t seen at first because of a blind spot.

Exiting forward provides that 360 view, allowing you to see in both directions and turn smoothly into the street without stopping. In some cases, I save gas because I don’t have to start the engine until the path is clear.
Try it! You may like it!

— Esther Arellano Harlow