After some robust discussion among the sa move team, we decided to ask RAA’s social media followers if they preferred parking nose first or reversing into a car park. Here are some of your responses.

The debate

Reversing

The response on RAA’s social media channels suggests reversing into a car park is widely favoured.

For some people, the decision to reverse into a parking space is black and white.

I’ll reverse park whenever I can. Much easier to get out of the park without having issues.” – Rob

Reverse every time. [It’s] quicker, can see the lines better, and [it’s] safer as you can see all around as you swing out to back in. You have full view of what’s in front as you indicate and drive out. – John

There are benefits to reversing into a car park. According to research by the UK-based Institute of Advanced Motorists, reversing into a space means they’re in a safer position to pull away.

RAA Senior Manager Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain agrees that there are advantages to reversing your car into a park.

It can often be easier to reverse into a parking space, particularly if you have a larger vehicle. Check the signs before you park as some locations specify that your vehicle must face a certain direction.

In South Australia, reversing into an angle parking space is generally only permitted where there is 90-degree angle parking. Where there is angle parking at an angle other than 90 degrees (usually 45 or 60 degrees) then the rule is front in.

“When driving out after reversing in, you may have better visibility to see pedestrians and other cars,” he says.

“However. depending on the scenario, parking front facing might be more appropriate.”

Before you read the forward-facing fans’ argument, watch the video below. We went out on the street and asked the public which way they think you should park.