Illegal parking a ‘serious problem’ for 51% of drivers
More than half of UK drivers believe that illegal parking on double yellow lines is a significant problem, according to new research from The AA.
The survey of almost 15,000 motorists found that 51% said parking on double yellow lines in busy urban areas was a serious issue, just over a third said it wasn’t a serious problem, while 11% said it wasn’t a problem at all.
Drivers in the West Midlands and North West England were most concerned, with 55% describing it as a serious issue, while only 47% of drivers in Eastern England felt the same.
Parking on double yellow lines increases the risk of accidents by restricting visibility and forcing drivers to veer into the middle of the road to pass.
Road safety
Jack Cousens, AA head of roads policy, said: “Parking on double yellow lines is illegal for a reason – it’s there to protect visibility, access, and safety for everyone using the road. But the impact of ignoring these rules isn’t just legal; it’s social and practical too.
“In cities, it can block emergency vehicles, delay buses, and put pedestrians at risk. In quieter areas, it may not seem as urgent, but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless.
“That’s why we’re urging councils to take a more localised approach by combining clear signage, consistent enforcement, and public education to address the issue in a way that fits the needs of each community.”
