Drivers are being urged to check parking rules before leaving their cars overnight in a new location - or risk of a hefty fine.
Motorists may be tempted to park somewhere new if they are visiting friends for the night or attending an event, but doing so can lead to a large bill if the spot isn’t suitable. While some places might seem obvious to avoid, others aren't so well-known.
A spokesperson for LeaseCar.uk said: “Most of us drivers know that we can’t park our cars overnight in certain areas, or on certain road markings. And, many of us don’t want to run the risk of parking somewhere which may result in a stolen vehicle, vandalism, or an expensive fine.
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“That’s why it is important to check where it is illegal to park your car overnight. Not only that, but spots which aren’t illegal, but which will cause major grievances, like parking in front of your neighbour’s driveway, are inconsiderate. It is also key to ensure that you are not parked anywhere which could be a danger to others - such as cyclists and emergency service vehicle access.”
Here are the places where the experts at LeaseCar.uk advise avoiding to park overnight...
Taxi rank
Parking up overnight in an empty taxi rank may seem like a good idea to some, but it can actually land drivers a fine. It's only legal for licensed public taxis to park in the ranks.
Not only that, but the move would mess up the flow of the taxi system and would annoy taxi drivers.
Car parks
Before parking, it is important to check to see if overnight stays are allowed in certain car parks. Even though it may seem easy to get away with if the car park is not ticketed, parking overnight is a no go.
Car parks use ANPR cameras to catch any illegal visitors - if caught, a hefty fine could be on the way.
Cycle lanes
Many drivers may think it's ok to park on a cycle lane overnight as there are no cyclists out during this time. But bike users may still be using the cycle lanes during all hours of the day and night.
There are dedicated cycle lanes for a reason: to prevent any accidents with vehicles, parked or not. Cyclists will be forced to swerve around parked cars, potentially putting themselves and other road users in danger.
In front of the neighbour’s driveway
Parking in front of neighbour’s driveways is a common grievance among homeowners. It's a nuisance for the owner of the driveway, blocking access in and out of their drive.
It can also cause disruptions when it comes to heading off to work, or needing to leave the house in an emergency.
Preventing emergency service access
Although this may be obvious to drivers, it is still worth reiterating that it is crucial not to park anywhere which could prevent access for ambulances, fire engines and police vehicles.
Although this shouldn’t be done at any point throughout the day, parking on a narrow street or somewhere with tight access is especially bad at night, as there is much less chance for drivers to be able to move their vehicles quickly.
Against the direction of traffic flow
The Highway Code makes it illegal to park vehicles which are facing against the direction of traffic flow, overnight. The only exception to this rule is unless there is a dedicated, and recognised, parking space to allow drivers to do so.
Check signage
It might be tempting to park overnight on a nearby street, but doing so could incur fines. It could actually be illegal - which is why it's important to check around signage in parking spots on the street or in car parks.
Signs will outline any times or days where drivers cannot park up.
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