Many drivers, faced with the absence of a car park, will opt to park along the road, believing it’s allowed as long as there are no restrictions like double yellow lines. However, they might not be aware of a lesser-known regulation that could see them getting a parking ticket.
The term double parking is commonly associated with obstructing another vehicle by parking alongside or behind it. Yet, the double parking rules can also apply to cars parked along the kerb.
This is because, according to The Highway Code: “You must not leave your vehicle or trailer in a dangerous position or where it causes any unnecessary obstruction of the road.”
A key detail often overlooked is the requirement for vehicles to be parked close enough to the kerb; specifically within 50cm. Drivers can be in breach of the code if “no part of the vehicle is within 50cm of the edge of the carriageway (kerb line)”, and the owner risks receiving a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). To put it into perspective, 50cm is approximately the width of a wheelie bin lid.
There’s an exemption if your vehicle is “wholly within a marked parking bay”. When parking away from the kerb in a bay, make sure to check that you’ve stayed fully within the designated lines.
Some motorists face the opposite issue and resort to parking on the pavement, but this too can result in a fine. Although it’s not against the law to park on the pavement outside of London and Scotland, if you create an obstruction, you could still be issued with a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
There have been discussions about outlawing pavement parking throughout England, but no definitive timeline has been established for this yet. Restrictions can vary from area to area.
The cost of PCNs can also vary based on the location, but they typically fall within the £50-80 bracket. Some local authorities offer discounts of up to 50% if the fine is settled within 14 days, though additional fees may be imposed if it remains unpaid after a month.
Those who fail to pay their PCN could face court proceedings, potentially adding hundreds of pounds to the original fine. It’s also one of the most frequent reasons for individuals receiving a County Court Judgment (CCJ), which can adversely affect your credit rating.