As a driver, there are few things more frustrating than returning to your car to find a parking charge notice slapped on it. But an expert has explained that certain parking tickets can “go straight in the bin”.
Consumer champion site Which? has posted a video on its Instagram feed, in which video reporter Lucia Ariano has shared how people can appeal a parking ticket if the signs are not clear. You can also challenge the fine if the charge is more than £100, or if there is a mitigating reason such as ill health, or if your car broke down.
Lucia adds that if the parking company is not a member of an accredited trading association, such as the British Parking Association or the Independent Parking Committee, you can simply ignore it. Lucia said: “[The company] won’t be able to get your details from the DVLA to make you pay.”
If the parking company is accredited, she explains, you can write an appeal letter and should include evidence such as photos of poor signage and evidence of any mitigating circumstances. Official bodies, like councils and the police can issue parking tickets, and these will usually need to be paid.
On its website, Which? says: “If you’ve been issued with a parking ticket you think is unfair, you have the right to challenge it. Our guides and free letter tools help you appeal and provide the information you need.”
It also offers “straightforward steps to get an unfair parking charge cancelled if it’s issued by a council or private company”, as well as free sample letters for anyone who wants to appeal a parking ticket on its website.