It is quite popular in Honolulu, but results in jammed up parking lots as crappy drivers jockey back and forth, blocking the lane completely. Either do it fast, or if you cannot, do not try it at all and just pull the F in and get out of the way.
http://www.ctre.iastate.edu/pubs/vehicle_safety_poster.pdf
Read #4 on the list.
Studies have shown its safer to back in on arrival than to back out on departure.Mostly because you have a complete field of view into the area you are heading.
These are long time practices used by UPS,ATT and a host of other companies that operate 1000’s of vehicles that are self insured.Think they know something the general public don’t??
If some one has to wait for me to park...Tough,my safety is my concern.