The RAC has issued a warning to drivers about the confusion surrounding the abbreviation PCN, which can refer to two distinct types of parking tickets. According to the motoring organization, approximately half of motorists are unaware of the difference between a Penalty Charge Notice and a Parking Charge Notice, both commonly shortened to PCN.
Key Differences Explained
Simon Williams, RAC Head of Policy, clarified that a Penalty Charge Notice is issued by local councils and constitutes a fine that must be paid. In contrast, a Parking Charge Notice is issued by private parking firms when a vehicle is left on private land and is considered an invoice for an alleged breach of contract. The similarity in appearance, often both printed on bright yellow paper, adds to the confusion, with the RAC suggesting this may be deliberate.
Support for Name Change
Due to widespread confusion, drivers are reportedly supportive of renaming private Parking Charge Notices to distinguish them from council-issued penalties. Barney Cotton, RAC Consumer Editor, noted that drivers can appeal private parking charges through the Independent Appeals Service or Parking on Private Land Appeals (POPLA).
Additional Parking Insights
Recent research from Go Compare also revealed that parking in a garage could unexpectedly increase car insurance premiums. The average annual premium for garage parking is £647, compared to £623 for other parking locations. Tom Banks, a Go Compare spokesperson, suggested this may be due to larger modern cars increasing the risk of scrapes and bumps when maneuvering into garages.
