UK Driving Theory Practice Exam

How can you improve safety during parking in sloped areas?

1. By turning off the engine

2. By using the handbrake only

3. By correctly positioning wheels depending on the hill slope

4. By checking mirrors only

The correct answer is: By correctly positioning wheels depending on the hill slope

Improving safety during parking in sloped areas is crucial to prevent vehicles from rolling away. The correct approach is to position the wheels correctly depending on the direction of the slope. When parking uphill, you should turn your front wheels away from the curb, allowing the vehicle to roll back slightly and rest against the curb if it begins to move. Conversely, when parking downhill, the front wheels should be turned toward the curb. This positioning acts as a safeguard, preventing the vehicle from rolling into traffic or causing an accident. In terms of other approaches, turning off the engine does contribute to safety but does not specifically address the risk of rolling. While using the handbrake is essential and provides an additional layer of security, relying solely on it without positioning the wheels correctly may not be sufficient, especially on steep slopes. Checking mirrors is vital for overall safety while driving, but it doesn’t directly impact parking safety on slopes. Thus, ensuring the correct placement of wheels is the primary method for enhancing safety in these situations.