The little-known 50cm parking rule that could see motorists hit with £80 fines
Motorists on the hunt for a spot along the kerb might be surprised by a lesser-known parking rule that could lead to fines, even sans double yellow lines or evident obstructions. Often misunderstood among drivers, 'double parking' doesn't just imply blocking another car; it can be as simple as parking next to the kerb the wrong way.
The Highway Code is clear: "You must not leave your vehicle or trailer in a dangerous position or where it causes any unnecessary obstruction of the road."
A car parked such that "no part of the vehicle is within 50cm of the edge of the carriageway (kerb line)" could find itself the recipient of a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). In other words, make sure you’re parked within 50cm of the kerb – approximately the width of a wheelie bin lid.
READ MORE: Households urged to put grated cheese in gardens in January
READ MORE: Asda issues unwelcome warning to shoppers and says 'sorry to tell you'
Exceptions are made when the car is "wholly within a marked parking bay", so always verify that your vehicle is completely inside the designated lines when settling into a space. While parking on the pavement may only be outrightly illegal in London and Scotland, obstructing walkways, regardless of location, could still tickle the fancy of a fine in some regions.
Conversations are actively unfolding about the prospect of banning pavement parking throughout England, although no concrete timeline has been established yet, reports the Express.
The price of PCNs can fluctuate based on the location, generally falling between £50-80. Certain councils provide discounts of up to 50% if the fine is settled within a fortnight, but extra fees may be incurred if it remains unpaid after a month.
Non-payment of a PCN can result in court proceedings, potentially escalating the cost by hundreds. It's also one of the primary causes for receiving a County Court Judgment (CCJ), which can have a detrimental impact on your credit score.