FAMILY ALERT
Drivers warned of hefty fines for using parent-child parking bays…even if they have a kid with them
There is also a strict age limit imposed on the spaces
DRIVERS have been urged to take car as experts revealed they can still be slapped with a hefty fine for using a parent-child parking bay even if they have a kid with them.
The free spaces, which are often provided by supermarkets, allow parents to stop close to the store entrance so little ones don't have to walk across busy car parks.
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However, using one incorrectly can result in a bill for hundreds in penalty charges.
One mum was actually ordered to pay £260 for using one of the bays after she broke a little-known rule, according to the Mirror.
The parking firm involved reportedly claimed that she "didn't require the extra space" as she didn't actually take her children out of the vehicle.
Likewise, another parent was handed a £100 penalty when she used on of the bays because she tried to leave extra space for her daughter to exit the car.
Mum Charlotte told Lancashire Live: "I chose to park slightly into the pink area (about a tyre’s width), so I could get my daughter out of the car safely.
"I did it for the safety of my daughter and the protection of others’ property, and I was still within the child/parent parking area."
Unfortunately, the rules can be a little more complex than the name suggests
Tim Alcock
Yet she was still forced to pay the charge thanks to the regulations governing parent-child spaces.
There are also strict age limits imposed, with only children under 12 qualifying for the exemption.
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Tim Alcock of LeaseCar.uk told SunMotors: "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.
Personal trainer claims he needs to park in parent-and-child bays because he's too big for normal spaces
"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."
An RAC spokesperson added: "Parent and child bays are reserved for parents or guardians with one or more children under 12 years old.
"It’s unclear whether pregnant women can use the spaces and probably best to ask an individual store manager what their rules are.
"While it isn’t illegal to park in a parent and child bay if you don’t have a child under 12 with you, you could be hit with a Parking Charge Notice (PCN).
"Disabled drivers should use the dedicated bays for blue badge holders."-