When parked next to a vehicle, where should your reference point be for parallel parking?

In parallel parking, the correct reference point is the rear bumper of the vehicle located opposite to the car you are parking behind. This is important because using the rear bumper allows you to gauge the distance between your vehicle and the other car, ensuring that you have enough space to maneuver without hitting either vehicle.

Focusing on the rear bumper also helps you align your vehicle correctly as you start to angle it into the parking space. This reference point allows you to judge when to start turning the steering wheel and helps maintain an appropriate angle as your vehicle enters the parking spot. By utilizing the rear bumper of the opposite vehicle, you can more easily manage the spatial relationships involved in the parking process, leading to a smoother and safer parking experience.