Motorists who are hit with parking charges are often given confusing and inaccurate advice, according to experts.
Anyone who is given a fine which they perceive to be unfair has been warned not to ignore it.
Instead, the RAC says, you should appeal in the first instance - and then to the free independent appeals service if needed.
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Some people have suggested parking tickets can be ignored, especially if they're issued on private land. But this isn't the case.
While ignoring a parking charge notice issued by a private company is not strictly illegal, as it has not been issued by a government official, it could still have strict consequences.
You could be taken to court for ignoring or refusing to pay a private parking charged - and if you're found guilty you will have to pay any legal fees, which could cost a lot more than the parking fine.
The best way to avoid getting a parking fine, the RAC says, is to pay where you should and not to park where you don’t have the right to do so.
Motorists should always check the signage in private parking locations and adhere to the terms and conditions.
The RAC Foundation estimates some 8 million parking charges have been issued this year - however, four out of five motorists never get a parking ticket.
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