Parking and Stopping Rules
- 1/21If your parking and exiting your vehicle
Before exiting your parked vehicle, look for approaching cars, bikes, or pedestrians. Use your right hand to open the door. This turns your body to look back.
When parking on the roadside of a vehicle already stopped at the curb
This is known as double parking, and it is illegal because it obstructs traffic and creates a hazard for other drivers. Never stop, park, or leave your vehicle idling beside a parked vehicle.
When stopping or parking on a sidewalk or a marked crosswalk
Parking on sidewalks or crosswalks is prohibited as it blocks pedestrian access and violates public safety laws. These areas are designated for foot traffic only.
If you want to stop near an intersection
Do not block intersections or crosswalks because doing so can obstruct the movement of other vehicles and endanger pedestrians.Always stop behind the limit line to keep these areas clear and safe.
If your are near street excavation or roadwork zones
Stay clear near street or roadwork zones because workers and equipment may be present, and the area could have uneven surfaces or hazards. Driving or parking too close can endanger lives and disrupt construction.
Stopping on a bridge, highway overpass, or inside a tunnel
Do not stop on bridges, overpasses, or in tunnels because these areas are not designed for stopping and can create serious traffic hazards. Always keep moving unless directed otherwise by signs or officials.
If you are stopping or parking on a railroad track
Never stop or park on railroad tracks because trains cannot stop quickly and may not see your vehicle in time. Blocking the tracks puts you and others at serious risk of a deadly collision.
If you want to park near a fire hydrant
Do not park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant to ensure firefighters have quick and unobstructed access during emergencies. It is also a traffic violation and may result in a fine or towing.
If you are parking near a crosswalk
Do not park within 20 feet of a crosswalk to maintain clear visibility for drivers and pedestrians. Parking too close can block the view of people crossing and increase the risk of accidents.
Parking within 30 feet of a stop sign, flashing signal, or traffic control device
This can lead to accidents or missed traffic instructions. Keeping the area clear ensures safe and visible traffic flow.
Parking within 50 feet of a railroad crossing
Parking within 50 feet of a railroad crossing can block the view of oncoming trains for other drivers. It also interferes with emergency access and train operations.
When stopping or parking in a disabled parking space without authorization
This is a serious offense. Fines start at $500 and may reach $1,250 with repeat offenses, along with possible community service. Only vehicles with proper placards or plates may park in these spaces.
Parking in a disabled space using a removable windshield identification card
You may only use a disabled parking windshield card if you are transporting the disabled person to whom it was issued. Misuse can lead to fines and legal action.
Using a disabled parking card issued to someone else
It is illegal to lend, borrow, or use a disabled parking ID card that was issued to another person. These cards are only for individuals with valid disabilities who are being transported.
When stopping or standing in a striped area next to a disabled parking space
Striped areas are reserved for wheelchair access and vehicle lifts. Parking or stopping in these zones, even briefly, is a violation of accessibility laws.
When a car is left idling unattended on a roadway or parking space
The law requires that you turn off the engine, remove the key, lock the ignition, and set the parking brake before leaving a car unattended.
When preparing to parallel park
To safely begin parallel parking, signal before you pass the desired space to alert drivers behind you of your intention. This prevents confusion and possible rear-end collisions.
Before backing into a parking space
Aligning next to the vehicle ahead helps you back into the space smoothly and accurately. It ensures your car fits within the lines and avoids hitting nearby vehicles or obstacles.
After completing a parallel park, a necessary step to avoid rolling or curb damage is
Straightening your wheels after parallel parking helps keep your car stable and prevents it from drifting into traffic or the curb. It also makes it easier for you and others to exit the space safely.
When leaving a parking space in any location
Use caution and check all mirrors for pedestrians, especially small children who may be playing or walking between parked cars. Turn your head to look behind you as you back up, not just using mirrors.
When driving downhill, maintain better speed control and engine braking by
It is illegal and dangerous to coast downhill in neutral. Coasting reduces your control over the vehicle and can lead to brake failure on steep grades.