Older drivers urged to get document which makes them 'exempt' from new parking laws

Older drivers urged to get document which makes them 'exempt' from new parking laws
-Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited


Older drivers in England are being told they are "exempt" from new parking rules. Private car parks are set to scrap five-minute grace periods for motorists - but road users who are older could be omitted from the rules anyway.

Experts have urged older motorists to acquire a Blue Badge and protect themselves from private and council-owned car park rules. The Older Drivers Forum said: “Join the Blue Badge scheme, if you are eligible, which provides exemptions from some parking restrictions and access to designated parking spaces if you or your passenger have severe mobility problems.

“This would allow you to park nearer to your destination. The scheme operates differently in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland and is managed by local councils.” A Blue Badge lets you use more accessible parking options, including disabled parking spaces.

ADVERTISEMENT

READ MORE: Warning issued to anyone who has used ATM for cash withdrawal in past 12 months

READ MORE: 'Fuss free' hoodie from Marks & Spencer for £50 that is 'soft' and 'so cute'

READ MORE UK households being handed free £300 but 'there's a cut off to apply'

If you receive a Blue Badge, only you can use it. This means if someone else is picking you up or dropping you off they'll be able to use it – but you can’t lend it to someone to go and do shopping for you, for example. If you don't need the badge anymore you have to return it to your local counci

Blue Badge holders are exempt from certain parking restrictions. They're allowed to park free of charge at on-street parking meters and in Pay and Display bays and on single or double yellow lines for up to 3 hours, except where there's a ban on loading or unloading.

ADVERTISEMENT

Some local councils put additional restrictions on Blue Badge holders. You should check with the local council in the area you’re parking in to find out what their rules are. The scheme doesn't apply in certain boroughs in London, which offer their own parking concessions.

Blue Badges usually last for 3 years, and you'll need to reapply before your old one expires as you can't use an expired badge. You renew your badge the same way you apply for a new one, through the GOV.UK website.