Parking in a car park can be a daunting task for many motorists, with numerous risks and potential consequences awaiting the unwary driver. Among these risks, parking over two bays is a seemingly innocuous yet increasingly common practice that can have severe repercussions, including sizeable parking fines and a negative impact on the overall parking experience. A recent study conducted by Motorpoint has revealed that an estimated 1.5 million drivers could be caught parking over more than one bay by the year 2025. This alarming figure is based on a survey of 2,000 UK car owners regarding their parking behaviors, which found that 5% of respondents would deliberately occupy multiple spaces to protect their cars from damage.
Age and Parking Habits
Notably, those in the 25-34 age bracket are nearly twice as inclined to park incorrectly compared to other age groups. This trend highlights the need for a greater awareness of parking rules and regulations among younger drivers.
- 5% of UK car owners would deliberately occupy multiple parking spaces
- More than one-third of all drivers are unsure about parking rules and regulations
Furthermore, a survey by INRIX Research found that nearly half of US drivers consider occupying two spaces to be the most egregious parking offense. This sentiment is shared by Graham Conway, Managing Director of Select Car Leasing, who warns that adopting a zero-tolerance approach to parking within designated bays will become increasingly common.
“More and more private and public car parks are adopting a zero-tolerance approach to parking within the white lines of designated bays. Even minor indiscretions, when a wheel is just a fraction over the line, are being punished with penalty charge notice (PCN) of up to £100, depending on the location,”
In fact, a study by the RAC found that a staggering 1 in 5 drivers have received a penalty charge notice (PCN) for parking incorrectly. These statistics underscore the need for a greater awareness of parking rules and regulations among all drivers.
Penalties and Consequences
The consequences of parking over two bays can be severe, with fines beginning at £70 and potentially increasing to £130 depending on the location and seriousness of the breach. In addition to financial penalties, parking over two bays can also lead to a negative impact on the overall parking experience, as it tends to enrage fellow drivers.
| Consequence | Penalty (£) |
| Parking over two bays | £70-£130 |
| Minor indiscretions | £50-£100 |
As driving expert Tim Rodie at Motorpoint emphasized, parking over two bays is not a viable solution for safety-conscious drivers. He cautioned against such practices, saying: “While I can empathise with motorists who are worried about their car getting damaged in a busy car park, parking across two bays isn’t the answer.”
Alternatives to Parking Over Two Bays
For those anxious about their vehicle being damaged while parked, the best course of action is to opt for a quieter spot towards the back of the car park, reducing the likelihood of other cars parking directly adjacent. This approach not only minimizes the risk of damage but also reduces the likelihood of incurring a penalty charge notice.
Example: Choosing a Quieter Parking Spot
Consider the following scenario: a motorist is parking their vehicle in a busy car park and wants to minimize the risk of damage. They notice a quieter spot towards the back of the car park and opt to park there instead. By doing so, they reduce the likelihood of other cars parking directly adjacent and minimize the risk of incurring a penalty charge notice.
Key Takeaways
- Parking over two bays is a common practice among drivers, despite the risks and consequences.
- A zero-tolerance approach to parking within designated bays is becoming increasingly common.
- Parking over two bays can result in sizeable parking fines and a negative impact on the overall parking experience.
- Opting for a quieter spot towards the back of the car park can minimize the risk of damage and incurring a penalty charge notice.
By understanding the risks and consequences associated with parking over two bays, motorists can take steps to minimize their exposure to financial penalties and ensure a smoother parking experience. Ultimately, being aware of parking rules and regulations is essential for safe and responsible driving practices.