Mike Thompson, Chief Operating Officer at Leasing Options, has urged drivers to read up on private parking rules which could save them £100 in fines.
Drivers in England who break 10-minute rule to be fined £100 this weekend
Drivers are being warned breaking a rule this weekend comes with a £100 fine. With the bank holiday weekend c oming up and many drivers using private car parks over the weekend, Mike Thompson, Chief Operating Officer at Leasing Options, has urged drivers to read up on private parking rules which could save them £100 in fines.
Mike, Chief Operating Officer at Leasing Options, urged motorists to read up on changes to parking rules this bank holiday weekend, as many head out with friends and family.
He said: “Over the bank holiday weekend, lots of people will be heading out for a day with friends and family, maybe to the cinema, the beach, or for a browse around the shops. That also means many of us will be using private car parks, which, unfortunately, if you’re running a little late or you miss important signage, can lead to getting a parking charge notice.
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But what a lot of drivers might not know, is that as of October 2024 a new Single Code of Practice for private parking came into effect that gives drivers further rights against unfair charges.
“Now, there’s a mandatory 10-minute grace period before a parking fine can be issued, which allows drivers a bit of breathing room if they’re running behind.
“There are also clearer rules around signage, so the terms should be easier to understand and spot when you park. On top of that, there’s a standardised appeals process, which means if you think a ticket is unfair, it should be simpler to challenge it.
“The charges themselves have been capped too – they now can’t go over £100, and if you pay promptly, it’s reduced to £60. For those that have mitigating circumstances such as payment machines being out of operation, or being delayed by a medical emergency, the parking firms must now also drop your fine to £20, so if you are issued a PCN it’s worth looking into whether your circumstances fall under this bracket.
“For those who lease their car, it’s also important to know that the parking charge notice usually goes straight to the leasing company as the registered keeper. In most cases, the leasing provider will forward the notice to the driver, but it can sometimes include an admin fee for processing it.
“That’s why it’s worth acting quickly if you receive a PCN, the sooner you deal with it, the less likely you are to face extra charges or complications.
“We urge that drivers, before heading out this weekend, take a few minutes to get familiar with these new rules. Knowing your rights could save you money and take the stress out of what should be a relaxing day out.”