What is the primary reason to point your wheels straight ahead when parked?

Pointing your wheels straight ahead when parked is primarily important for safety reasons, specifically to avoid rolling back down a hill. When a vehicle is parked on an incline, having the wheels straight ensures that if the parking brake were to fail or if the vehicle were to shift unexpectedly, it would likely move straight forward rather than rolling into traffic or off the road. This practice minimizes the risk of accidents caused by the vehicle rolling away, which can be especially dangerous in high-traffic areas or if the vehicle rolls into pedestrians or other cars.

Other options, while potentially relevant under certain contexts, do not address the core safety concern associated with parking on an incline. By aligning the wheels straight, drivers are actively taking a precautionary measure aimed at preventing accidents, reinforcing the importance of safe parking practices.