Millions of motorists risk breaking a “hidden” parking rule when stopping at locations such as supermarkets and hospitals, according to experts. Daniel Swain, a secondhand mobility scooter expert from Seacroft Mobility, stressed that Blue Badge holders could break crucial rules.
According to Daniel, road users assume that their Blue Badge entitles them to free parking everywhere, but this isn’t always the case. Although a Blue Badge usually offers free parking, this varies by location, with some sites still charging people with disabilities. It could see road users caught out when stopping their vehicles, with road users at risk of being slapped with fines.
Daniel said: “Don’t assume free parking. A Blue Badge doesn’t always guarantee free parking in a private car park, like at a supermarket or hospital. You must always read the signs there, as you might still have to pay or register your car.”
Blue Badges are a crucial UK parking permit handed out to people with severe mobility issues or hidden disabilities. Experts at Seacroft Mobility urged drivers to always check the local council’s website for specific rules before travelling to a new place.
Site-specific car park signs will also outline all rules, explaining whether Blue Badge holders need to pay. Data from the Department of Transport shows that there are now more than three million Blue Badge holders in England. The number is increasing all the time, with another 228,000 licences issued year-on-year.
Daniel added: “It’s a really common problem. Most people think their Blue Badge is a licence to park anywhere for free, but that’s just not the case. Different councils, and even different car parks, have their own rules.
“A simple mistake could cost you hundreds in fines or, in the worst cases, result in your badge being taken away.”
GOV.UK explained: “You may park for free. Unless signs say otherwise, you may park without time limit. You must display the Blue Badge (and the blue parking clock if the bay is time-limited). Always try to use these bays instead of parking on yellow lines. There are a number of restrictions and local parking schemes which you need to be aware of.”