UK Drivers Pay Unfair Private Parking Fines to Avoid Hassle, Study Shows
Private parking firms are issuing millions of fines to UK drivers, with many people paying penalties despite knowing they've done nothing wrong, according to new research.
Parking ticket sticker on car windscreen
The AA survey of 11,500 motorists found that 1 in 20 drivers pay private parking charge notices (PCNs) immediately, even when innocent, mainly to avoid the hassle of appealing. Many others avoid appeals due to lack of confidence in the system or fear of court action.
What to Do If You Receive a PCN:
- Pay the fine to resolve the matter quickly
- Appeal to the parking company or Independent Appeals Service if the charge seems unfair
- Request evidence of the alleged violation
- Respond within the specified timeframe (usually 28 days)
What to Avoid:
- Ignoring the PCN, which can lead to increased penalties
- Missing appeal deadlines
- Attempting to transfer responsibility without proper evidence
The situation stems from delayed implementation of 2019 reforms meant to regulate private parking firms through a standardized Code of Practice and unified appeals process. After legal challenges, the proposed Code was withdrawn in 2022, leaving drivers with limited protection.
Financial Impact:
- Expected 14.5 million penalty notices in 2025
- Potential total value of £1.4bn in private parking fines
- Five firms responsible for nearly half of all DVLA driver detail requests
The AA's head of roads policy, Jack Cousens, called the situation "scandalous," noting that drivers face aggressive enforcement with minimal protection. Citizens Advice reports a 34% increase in parking-related inquiries over the past year.
Industry groups are pushing for implementation of the promised Code of Practice and appeals process by end of 2025 to provide better protection for millions of affected drivers.