Drivers in the UK could be hit with a £100 fine for breaking a little-known parking rule, as authorities ramp up enforcement in busy urban areas.
The crackdown targets vehicles parked with their wheels on the pavement – a common practice in narrow streets, but one that can now land motorists with a hefty penalty.
Why Is This Rule Being Enforced?
Pavement parking has long been a contentious issue, particularly in cities like Westminster where space is limited. While many drivers assume it’s acceptable to partially mount the kerb to avoid blocking traffic, new measures are clamping down on the practice.
Key reasons for the crackdown include:
- Obstructing pedestrians, especially those with disabilities or pushchairs
- Damaging pavements and underground utilities
- Creating hazards for visually impaired individuals
How Much Is the Fine?
Offenders could face a £100 penalty, reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days. While London already has strict pavement parking rules, other UK cities may soon follow suit with similar enforcement.
How to Avoid the Fine
Motorists should:
- Always look for proper parking spaces
- Avoid mounting kerbs unless signs explicitly permit it
- Be particularly cautious in urban areas with high foot traffic
With councils under pressure to improve pedestrian safety, experts warn that enforcement of this rule is likely to increase across the country.
