Drivers can be fined for using a parent-child parking bay even if they have kid with them.
Parking is pretty much the bane of any motorist's existence but it's clearly a whole lot trickier considering drivers can still be hit with a fine even if they meet all the requirements when it comes to parking up.
A parent-child parking bay - usually located close to the entrance of shops - is great when it comes to loading up or offloading your car with children and a trolley nearby.
However, there are certain things that parents and caregivers need to keep in mind when using them.
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Given that such parking bays are usually on private land, it's commonly up to the private firm's jurisdiction, rather than on government levels, on whether they fine you for allegedly misusing them.
One mum was fined a massive £260 for using one of the spaces because she didn't take her kids out of the car with her.
The parking firm in question claimed that the parent 'didn't require the extra space' offered to the parent-child parking bay due to the fact she wasn't unloading her vehicle.
And while each establishment usually has its own rules, the majority have an age limit for children of 12-years-old.
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However, in some car parks, there are some spaces reserved for babies and toddlers only.
Car parks also have requirements to display their rules for parent-child parking bays, along with any potential penalty if a driver breaks them.
If found to be breaking the rules, drivers can be handed a Parking Charge Notice of as much as £100 for misusing the parking space.
While drivers can dispute such a fine, it does tend to be a bit of a hassle given the lengthy process.
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Tim Alcock of LeaseCar.uk told The Sun: "Mums and dads will naturally enjoy using parent and child parking spaces that are more comfortable to park in and in an area closer to a shop’s entrance.
"Unfortunately, the rules can be a little more complex than the name suggests and it can be all too easy to get caught out, landing yourself in hot water or taking a hit in the pocket."
He continued: "The number one piece of advice if you’re considering using a parent and child parking space is to have your child with you and to take your child with you in-store.
"Read a car park’s signage, note the terms and conditions of using a parking there and then follow the stated rules."
Alcock goes on to stress the importance of drivers moving their vehicle to an appropriate space 'as soon as possible' if they realise they have parked improperly in order to avoid being slapped with an 'unnecessary parking charge notice'.
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"I would recommend that if you’re not sure of the rules in a particular location and your accompanying child is capable of walking slightly further across the car park, that parking in an alternative space would be the best course of action to take," he adds.
So, be sure to read all the small print next time you're parking up.
Rhiannon Ingle