Parking tickets: how to challenge paying a fine … and win
The number of parking tickets issued by private companies has hit a record high, according to figures published this month.
An analysis of Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency data by the PA news agency shows the number of parking tickets issued by private firms in Britain soared by 24% in the second half of 2022 to reach 5.7m – an average of about 31,000 every day.
If you think you have been given an unfair ticket, what can you do to challenge it? Here we outline your options.
First, establish whether the fine is from an organisation such as a local council, or from a private company.
The consumer and motoring disputes expert Scott Dixon claims that these often “look identical”, and that this “is done deliberately to confuse motorists”.
He adds: “It is important that people understand the differences.”
The wording on the ticket can help you work it out. A penalty charge notice (PCN) or fixed-penalty notice (FPN) mean it is an “official” fine, which will have a different appeals procedure to a private company ticket.
Meanwhile, a private firm will give you a parking charge notice.
Once you have worked out what kind of fine you have been hit with, you can take the first steps to appeal.
Regardless of which kind of ticket you have been given, it is important to take action.
Councils will typically offer you a reduced fine if you pay within 14 days. If you appeal, and this is unsuccessful, you should still be able to pay the lower amount.
Some people might think that fines by private firms can be treated less seriously and maybe do not have to be paid. However, if you ignore the fine, it could be passed on to a debt collection agency.
Barrie Segal, the founder of Appeal Now, said: “What tends to happen is people get very frustrated and
Read more on theguardian.com
