People back into parking spaces to make leaving easier and safer, since they can drive out forward with good visibility.
Reasons
- Easier and safer to leave: you can see traffic when driving forward.
- Better visibility with no blocked view.
- Quick getaway.
- Better access to the trunk.
Safety
Backing in when it is empty is safer than backing out into traffic.
Risks
More chance of bumping when it’s crowded.
Tip
Check for pedestrians.
Law
Some places ban it.
Reasons drivers give
Drivers back in so they can pull out forward, which gives a better view of traffic. Backing into a space is done at low speed in a controlled lot, while backing out of a space has limited view across cars and pedestrians. Trucks and vans benefit from the easier loading at the rear.
- Fleet safety programs often recommend back-in parking; the National Safety Council notes that backing accounts for a notable share of low-speed collisions.
- NHTSA data show that backover crashes cause around 200 deaths and 15,000 injuries per year in the US, many involving children, and rear cameras became required on new vehicles in May 2018.
- Back-in parking is mandatory in some places, such as diagonal parking on certain streets.
Considerations
Pulling in front-first is easier for many drivers. Back-in spaces help with exiting, but charging ports or tailpipe exhaust can be an issue next to walls. Rear cameras and parking sensors reduce risk. Follow signs, as some lots prohibit back-in parking where license plate visibility is required.
Reasons drivers give
Drivers back in to have better visibility when leaving, as pulling forward into traffic is easier than reversing blind. Some fleets require it for safety. A study by the National Safety Council found that backing out of a space is a leading cause of parking lot collisions.
Considerations
Backing in requires clear visibility and is easier with a backup camera. Some locations ban it, such as where license plates must be displayed at the front.
Safety and tradeoffs
Backing into a spot, you maneuver while the lot is at its quietest, and you leave forward with a better view of pedestrians. The National Safety Council says nearly one in five crashes happen in parking lots, with backing a major factor. Newer cars with rear cameras and cross traffic alert (mandatory on new vehicles in the US since 2018) reduce risk.
Etiquette and law
Some states or lots require front license plates visible, which discourages backing in. Back in parking in a tight garage can block traffic. Fleet drivers often are trained to back in. Whichever method you use, drive slowly at 5 mph, check mirrors and look for children.
Based on data from the National Safety Council and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
