Motorists warned of rise in parking fines over Christmas period with thousands at risk of £100 penalties
Councils have raked in billions in parking fines over the years
GB NEWS
Drivers have been warned about the increased risks of parking fines during the Christmas period as local authorities look to catch out rule breakers.
The warning comes after reports found that the period between November and December accounted for 16 per cent of all parking penalties issued throughout the year.
With last-minute shopping trips creating additional pressure on parking spaces, motorists are facing heightened chances of receiving costly tickets during the festive season.
Reports also revealed that during the festive period councils have handed out 16 million Penalty Charge Notices between 2022 and 2024, collecting over £643million in fines.
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Motorists can be charges £100 for parking fines
PAExperts are now urging shoppers to be particularly vigilant about parking restrictions during this busy period.
A survey of 2,000 UK drivers conducted in October 2024 showed that confusion over parking rules remains a persistent issue, with many drivers struggling to interpret restrictions correctly which has resulted in many being fined.
Rhydian Jones, Confused.com car insurance expert, explained: "As many head out for last-minute shopping before Christmas, crowded car parks and limited spaces might make drivers feel under pressure when trying to park."
In London, parking penalties can reach £130, while areas outside the capital typically charge lower amounts. Private land penalties can cost up to £100, with most fines being issued by local councils who set their own enforcement rules.
Local authorities and private companies can both issue parking notices, with offences including parking on white zigzag lines or exceeding permitted stay durations.
To help drivers avoid fines, experts recommend carefully checking parking restrictions and signs, particularly in town centres where rules may vary by time of day.
Planning ahead is crucial, with drivers advised to research parking options before travelling, using apps or websites that show real-time space availability.
Motorists are specifically warned to double-check they're not blocking driveways, parking in restricted bays, or leaving vehicles on yellow lines.
The Highway Code sets out various rules and regulations for UK roads, with many being legal requirements under the Road Traffic Act.Unless signs indicate specific exemptions, drivers should assume standard rules apply to all roads.
Confused.com found that more than four in five (81 per cent) UK drivers find parking signs confusing. A further 63 per cent believe parking signs should be made clearer to avoid confusion.
To address this issue, drivers can now use a parking signs translator tool, which provides an overview of parking restrictions by uploading an image of the sign.
The tool, while for general guidance only, aims to help motorists better understand parking rules and avoid potential fines during busy periods like Christmas.
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Drivers are more likely to be fined during Christmas period
GETTYDespite a Supreme Court ruling in 2015 requiring private companies to be fair and reasonable when imposing fines, many drivers still feel penalties are unjustified.
A third (33 per cent) of drivers who received parking notices reported being only a few minutes late to their car and felt the fine was disproportionate. Of those who do receive parking fines, 29 per cent choose to challenge them through formal appeals processes.
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