Motorists are urged to brush up on common parking signs to avoid hefty fines. Motoring experts claim fines could be avoided if Britons understood and adhered to signs.
Failing to park legally can leave drivers with a penalty charge notice or a fixed penalty notice.
The police, local council, or Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency issues a fixed penalty notice (FPN).
If you don’t pay within 28 days, the fine will increase, and you’ll be prosecuted.
If you break parking regulations, a penalty charge notice (PCN) is issued. In some places, they can be issued for moving traffic offences like using a bus lane.
Depending on the severity, fines can range from £50 to £130 for a PCN and from £50 to £300 for an FPN.
However, the experts claim these fines could be easily avoided if motorists park within the law and follow the instructions on the signs.
Jake Smith, director of Absolute Reg, urges drivers to brush up on their knowledge.
He said: “The number of different parking signs in the UK can make knowing where to park and for how long a little tricky.
“Having a basic knowledge of some of the most common signs could make the difference between getting slapped with a fine or avoiding one.
“If you’re in a new area and uncertain of the parking rules, look out for and make sure you read the signs and be clear on whether you are authorised to park on the road or the allocated bays.
“If you’re not sure, it’s worth moving elsewhere – a fine for parking is the last thing anyone needs.”
Here Are the Common Parking Signs:
Controlled Parking Zone
Waiting and loading are restricted in these areas for some or all of the time. Make sure you check the signs when entering a controlled parking zone. Restricted parking zone
A restricted parking zone has a waiting restriction and, in some cases, a loading restriction. The times it operates are usually stated on signs within the zone and when you enter it.
Permit Holder Parking
If you spot a ‘Permit Holders Only’ sign, don’t park there unless you hold the relevant permit. In some areas, non-permit parking is allowed during certain hours. Ensure you read and understand the sign correctly before parking and leaving the car. If you park in one of the bays illegally, you could have a penalty charge notice or a fixed penalty notice.
Parking Zones
There are several different parking zones: metre, pay and display, disc, or voucher zones. If they require payment, make sure that you pay.
Parking on a Verge / Footpath
The general rule about parking on verges and footways is don’t. However, it can be allowed on some narrow streets where pedestrians won’t be obstructed. There are a few different signs that indicate how a motorist should park—partially on the verge or footway, on it, or during shown times.
On-street Parking
Numerous signs relate to on-street parking. Places can be designated for certain types of vehicles or for a specified user and can require payment or be free. There may be a time limit on how long you stay and restrictions on how quickly you can return. Signs should display the limits, so make sure you check them carefully.
Comments are closed.