When you’re pulling out from behind an obstruction, such as a parked car, this is known as an ‘angled start.’ It is something you may be asked to perform on your driving test.

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An angled start presents a few extra problems over a standard start due to the proximity to the parked vehicle and the fact that you may have to move onto the wrong side of the road to safely pass around it.

 

To complete a successful angled start you will need to follow the POM with a few tweaks:

 

Prepare

Observe

Manoeuvre

 

Prepare

Prepare the car by ensuring the engine is on and the handbrake is engaged. Put the car into 'Drive' and place your hand on the handbrake.

 

Observe

Make sure you have a good look around before attempting to move the car. Start with the left shoulder (if you are parked on the left) and move your gaze to the right taking in both door mirrors, the rear view mirror, and your right blind spot as you go. 

 

It is also incredibly important to make thorough observations ahead too, especially if setting off will see you edge onto the opposite side of the road. If visibility is poor due to the proximity of the parked car, don't be afraid to lean around in your seat and, if necessary, edge the car forward slowly when setting off.

 

Manoeuvre

Once you are certain that nothing is coming from behind and you will cause no issues for oncoming traffic, indicate right and gently squeeze the accelerator to move the car forward slowly, continuing thorough observations as you go. Ensure that the steering wheel is turned sufficiently to clear the vehicle by about a door width (one metre).

 

Once clear of the parked vehicle, depress the accelerator to increase speed and check the rear view mirror to assess the progress of any vehicles approaching from behind. ​