Traffic Q&A: Turning wheels to curb required

Question: “I live on a moderately sloped hill and am wondering if I could get cited for not turning the wheels of my car to the curb in front of my house. How steep does the slope of a hill have to be before you’re required to turn your wheels?” – John, Tacoma

ROB CARSON; Staff writer

Published: 01/09/12 3:26 am | Updated: 01/09/12 2:06 pm

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Question: “I live on a moderately sloped hill and am wondering if I could get cited for not turning the wheels of my car to the curb in front of my house. How steep does the slope of a hill have to be before you’re required to turn your wheels?” – John, Tacoma

Answer: Theoretically, you could get a ticket if there’s any slope at all.

According to state law (RCW 46.61.600), “No person driving or in charge of a motor vehicle shall permit it to stand unattended without first stopping the engine, locking the ignition, removing the key and effectively setting the brake thereon and, when standing upon any perceptible grade, turning the front wheels to the curb or side of the highway.”

Practically speaking, however, you aren’t likely to be ticketed in most areas of Tacoma.

David Carr, parking-services manager in Tacoma’s Public Works Department, says the city’s parking officers are guided by the RCW, but usually only give tickets when there’s a sign.

“Parking Services enforces primarily downtown and enforces this ordinance wherever it is posted,” Carr said in an email. “The officers have discretion to enforce this ordinance on hills and inclines when not posted, but there is no specified grade or slope.”

A further question: Ticket or no ticket, why would you not turn your wheels?

Rob Carson: 253-597-8693
rob.carson@thenewstribune.com

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