Think you know your motoring laws?
According to car experts, there are seven parking laws where owners could face thousands in fines. Now motorists are being urged to take note of the rules.
Experts at LeaseVan identified some of the country's lesser-known driving laws to help road users avoid hefty fines and penalties. So how many have you broken?
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Parking next to a fire hydrant can result in on-the-spot fines of £500 and breaking exempt times on double yellow lines could lead to penalty points. Here are seven laws to brush up on…
1. Parking a dirty van
If a vehicle is covered in dirt and grime while parked up, the driver could face a £1,000 fine if the number plate is unreadable.
2. Parking close to a fire hydrant
Van drivers can face £500 fines for parking close to a fire hydrant as emergency services need clear and easy access to water for any incidents.
3. Pavement parking
While it's not illegal to park your car on the pavement, it's a criminal offence in London unless permission is otherwise granted. Vans can still be reported in cases where the vehicle is causing an obstruction.
4. Saving spaces
Wheelie bins, traffic cones or other objects to reserve a parking space near your house or workplace could result in fixed penalties as it can be seen as causing an obstruction on the road.
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5. Parking heavy vans on grass verges
While rules around parking on grass verges vary between local councils, it's generally allowed unless the van exceeds the optimal weight limit of 7.5 tonnes. Before pulling up, drivers should check the rules in the local area.
6. Take off air fresheners
Motorists need to take off any ornaments or air fresheners before heading back on the road. Drivers can be found guilty of careless driving under the Road Traffic Act 1988 if an accident occurs due to an obstructed view of the road.
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7. Breaking time limits on double yellows
The general rule is vans doing light loading have 20 minutes of access on double yellows, which is extended to 40 minutes for heavy loading. Anything longer than allocated can result in penalty fines and penalty points.
Tim Alcock, from LeaseVan, said: "Drivers need to brush up on their motoring laws to prevent any nasty surprises if a fine comes through the post.
"Even common mistakes such as parking too close to a fire hydrant and having a dirty van can result in hefty fines, which is why it's important to be vigilant when it comes to your vehicle.
"Some of these laws can result in fines of up to £1,000, points on your licence and eventually a driving ban if continuously broken."
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