VIDEO: Reverse Angle Parking Gains Support in Austin

In recent years, a number of major cities, including Charlotte and Austin, have added reverse angle parking spaces on busy streets. Drivers unfamiliar with this type of parking space might find it initially confusing. But its advantages can quickly become evident after a few tries.

Reverse angle parking, also known as “back-in angle parking,” is just like diagonal parking except you enter the space by backing into it instead of pulling forward.

Engineering studies indicate that reverse angle parking can be safer than parallel parking and conventional diagonal parking, particularly in bicycle-friendly cities. The driver and passengers get out of the vehicle next to other parked cars or open spaces, away from passing traffic.

Here are three simple steps you can pass along to fleet drivers, so they won’t be caught off-guard if they ever need to park in such a space:

1. Signal right to park.

2. Pull forward and stop.

3. Reverse and back into the space. (Side mirrors and backup cameras can help you view the parking space lines.)

According to the City of Charlotte Transportation Department, these are some of the benefits that reverse angle parking offers:

Improved Driver Visibility

• When leaving a parking space, drivers are facing forward. This allows a better view of traffic and cyclists.

• Drivers don’t have to back out into traffic blindly when leaving. This makes departures safer, quicker and easier.

Easier Loading and Unloading

• When vehicle doors are open, they block pedestrian access to the travel lane and guide them back to the sidewalk.

• The vehicle’s trunk is accessed from the sidewalk, making it safer and more convenient to load and unload items.

Accessible Parking and Curb Ramps

•  Accessible parking spaces are provided with direct access to the sidewalk.

• Wheelchair users can load and unload from the vehicle’s side or rear, away from the traffic lane.

To watch a video about Austin’s use of reverse angle parking, click on the photo or link above.