When parking parallel to the curb on a level street, how far must your wheels be from the curb?

When parking parallel to the curb on a level street, it is essential that the distance from the wheels to the curb is within 18 inches. This guideline ensures that parked vehicles are adequately aligned with the road, facilitating safer passage for other vehicles and pedestrians.

Being within this distance minimizes the risk of obstructing traffic and helps maintain organized parking patterns. It also allows for enough space to ensure that the vehicle does not extend too far into the roadway, which could pose a hazard to passing cars.

Some other distances mentioned in the choices, such as 12 inches or 3 feet, are not aligned with the regulations set forth for safe parking practices. While being too far away from the curb could disrupt the flow of traffic, the guideline of within 18 inches strikes a balance between safety and practicality.