“Choosing a safe parking place is important for your security and safety. Whenever you stop and park, you should consider whether you may be causing inconvenience or danger to others, and, of course, that you park legally.
There will always be a safe option for parking. There are so many safe, legal and convenient options for parking that it would be impossible to discuss them all, and so, in this video we are showing examples of where not to park and why they would cause problems.
Parking on the footpath – Although it seems common practice in this street, parking on the footpath can create danger for mobility scooters, blind people or pushing buggies. In many places, it is illegal to park on the footpath.
Parking opposite a junction – Parking opposite a junction can cause danger for traffic that is emerging and traffic on the main road because, when vehicles move out to pas your vehicle, they will be moving into the path of emerging traffic.
Parking on a bend or brow of a hill – Parking in these places is dangerous because you would restrict the view ahead for other drivers.
Parking where there are double white lines – It is illegal even if one line is broken. Double lines are used on stretches of road where parking could cause a dangerous obstruction.
It is illegal to park near a pedestrian crossing – You must not park on zig zag lines. This is a serious offence as you will be obstructing the driver’s view of pedestrians and the pedestrian’s view of drivers.
Blocking a gateway or other entrance – You wouldn’t be very happy if someone blocked an entrance where you were to wanting to get out.
Too close to a junction – Parking too close to a junction blocks the sidelines for approaching and emerging vehicles. Where there are parking restrictions, always check the signs to see if and when you can park.
Our examples show some poor parking choices, but they are not the only places where parking could cause problems or get you into trouble so always make absolutely sure that you park safely and legally.
The Highway Code also offers this advice about waiting and parking. It advises us to use off-street parking areas or bays marked out with white lines on the road as parking spaces wherever possible. It goes on to say if you have to stop on the road-side:
– Do not park facing against the traffic flow.
– Stop as close to the side of the road as you can.
– Do not stop too close to a vehicle displaying a blue badge (Remember the occupant may need more room to get in or out)
– It is safer for passengers to get out on the side near the kerb.
– Put all valuables out of sight and make sure your vehicle is secure.
– Lock your vehicle.
In addition, the Highway Code also reminds us about some legal requirements and these include:
– You must switch off the engine, headlights and fog lights.
– You must apply the parking brake before leaving the vehicle.
– You must ensure you do not hit anyone when you open your door.
– These are all legal requirements.
See the Highway Code for more information about parking safely. The best advice is always to park in a car park or designated parking area whenever possible.”
