Final answer:
When properly parked in a straight-in parking space, none of the car should stick out into the traffic lane. Parking spaces are designed to accommodate most vehicle lengths, with extra buffer space. Any protrusion would typically be due to improper parking or unusually long vehicles.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a vehicle is properly parked in a straight-in parking space, ideally, none of the car should stick out into the lane of traffic. The dimensions of parking spaces are designed with the average car length in mind, usually with extra space at both the front and the rear of the space to ensure that even longer vehicles can fit without obstructing traffic. However, the condition 'properly parked' is crucial. If a car is not parked within the boundaries of the parking space, it can protrude into the traffic lane, creating potential hazards for other drivers and pedestrians.
Parking lots and garages have different standards and sizes for straight-in parking spaces. In the United States, the standard length of a parking space can range from 18 to 20 feet, which typically accommodates most passenger cars and SUVs, which have an average length of about 14 to 17 feet. As long as the vehicle is properly parked within the confines of the designated parking space, it should not extend into the traffic lane.
However, factors such as the presence of overly long vehicles, parking at an improper angle, or failure to pull completely into the space can lead to a vehicle extending into the lane of traffic. Large trucks or vehicles with trailers are more likely to have a portion sticking out if the parking space is not specifically designed to accommodate larger vehicles. Thus, proper parking etiquette and awareness of one's vehicle size are important to prevent obstruction and ensure safety.