When parking your vehicle, why is it important to ensure your wheels are aligned correctly?

Ensuring your wheels are aligned correctly when parking is crucial primarily to prevent your vehicle from rolling away. When a car is parked, especially on an incline, proper wheel alignment helps keep the vehicle stationary. If the wheels are turned sharply, for instance, the car may be more prone to rolling if the parking brake fails or if the ground isn't level. This is particularly important for safety, as a rolling vehicle can pose a significant risk to pedestrians and other vehicles nearby.

While keeping the tires straight may contribute to overall vehicle stability, the primary concern here is safety regarding movement when the vehicle is parked. Aesthetic purposes and legal compliance are less critical in this situation compared to ensuring the car remains secure and does not pose a danger to others.