Almost 24.7 million UK motorists find parking rules and regulations confusing, according to a survey that has prompted questions around signage.
Half of motorists do not know their rights with regards to parking, with 13% unaware of the difference between rules for parking in a council or private car park – a report from British Parking Association (BPA) Approved Operators has found.
It is thought that such confusion surrounding parking could be one of the reasons why over a fifth of motorists who have received a ticket admit to having received more than one in the previous twelve months.
Industry experts say that while around 20% of all tickets issued by local authorities and private operators are appealed, over half of motorists think this appeals process is too complicated.
Local authorities came under fire last year for reportedly raising £594m through on and off street parking, a figure branded a ‘myth’ by the Local Government Association.
Since then, communities secretary Eric Pickles has built momentum behind a swathe of parking reforms contained in the Deregulation Bill, including a potential ban on the use of CCTV enforcement ‘spy cars’ cars and introduction of grace periods for motorists who outstay their tickets.
The BPA has today launched the Know Your Parking Rights campaign to provide motorists with information on restrictions and tickets.
Patrick Troy, chief executive of the BPA, said: ‘The majority of motorists understand the importance of good parking management and the vital role it plays in ensuring our towns, cities, and high streets are vibrant and appealing places.
‘However, it is clear that that many motorists are often left confused by parking rules and regulations. Whilst drivers of course have a responsibility to check the parking restrictions in operation, we must ensure that the rules are made as clear as possible to reduce the amount of avoidable charges.’
Disabled Motoring UK’s chief executive Graham Footer, added: ‘It’s vital that motorists understand the implications that inconsiderate parking can have for those with mobility and accessibility challenges.’
