When should you ensure your vehicle is parked properly before exiting?

It is essential to ensure your vehicle is parked properly before exiting, particularly after you have set the parking brake and stopped the engine. This practice helps prevent the vehicle from rolling unexpectedly and ensures that it is secured in place. By taking these steps, you minimize the risk of accidents or injuries that could arise from an improperly parked vehicle.

Every vehicle's parking brake is designed to hold the vehicle stationary, especially on inclines. Stopping the engine signals that you are done operating the vehicle, and thus, you should confirm that it is safe to exit.

Parking on busy streets or areas with pedestrians certainly requires added caution, but the fundamental safety steps—setting the parking brake and ensuring the engine is off—are critical in all situations. Being ready to leave for another destination doesn’t directly relate to ensuring that the vehicle is parked correctly before exiting. While pedestrian awareness is important, it is secondary to the safety protocols of properly parking the vehicle first.