UK drivers handed 1.6 million Penalty Charge Notices
More than 1.6 million Penalty Charge Notices were issued last year for parking ‘in a restricted street during prescribed hours.’
The data was revealed by The AA following a Freedom of Information request.
It also found that enforcement is not consistent across the country, with 10 councils – five of which are in London – responsible for more than a third (581,965) of all the PCN’s issued.
The figures come after an AA survey of nearly 15,000 drivers revealed that 37% have admitted to parking on double yellow lines at least once, with one in 10 saying they are repeat offenders.
Main reasons
The most common reasons for parking on double yellow lines included loading or unloading goods (43%), making a quick stop (31%), being with someone who has a Blue Badge (27%), lack of available legal parking (18%), and emergency situations (13%).
However, only 13% of those who parked illegally reported receiving a fine.
Practical solutions
Jack Cousens, AA parking expert, said: “Double yellow lines are a clear indication that waiting or parking in that area is strictly prohibited, unless there is a legal reason allowing someone to stop there.
“However, what is clear is that drivers are asking for practical parking solutions. Expanding legal parking provisions and improving visibility of restrictions could significantly reduce violations and improve road safety. Enforcement alone isn’t enough; people need to know where they can park safely and legally.”
