Thousands of heartless drivers are breaking parking rules by taking a 'quick stop' risk in disabled bays, according to new research. Experts fear this thoughtless behavior is becoming an increasing problem across the UK.
Rising Number of Fines for Disabled Bay Misuse
Freedom of information data from councils across the UK reveals that over 100,000 Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) were issued during the 2024/25 financial year for vehicles parked in disabled bays without permission or for Blue Badge misuse. The research, compiled by Mobility Solutions Direct, found that Swansea Council recorded the highest rate of disabled parking penalties outside London, handing out 4,683 fines. Rochdale Council followed with 2,867 penalties, while Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council issued a total of 5,694.
Why Drivers Risk It
Experts say there are growing cases of drivers thinking it is acceptable to quickly park in a disabled spot for a short stop, such as popping into the shops. They may think they are unlikely to be caught if they are only going to be five or 10 minutes. But this denies a space to someone who might genuinely need it. Drivers could be fined £70 if caught illegally parked in disabled bays, though enforcement tends to be a postcode lottery.
Summer Spike in Disabled Bay Abuse
Lee Cartwright of Mobility Solutions Direct says the issue tends to spike during the summer when car parks become more crowded. He said: “When people can’t find a space close to the shops, there’s always the temptation to pull into a disabled bay and think ‘I’ll only be a minute’. But for somebody with mobility issues, that space isn’t a convenience, it’s essential. If somebody is living with chronic pain, breathing difficulties or reduced mobility, even an extra few minutes walking across a packed car park can be exhausting. In some cases, it means they simply can’t manage the trip at all.”
He added: “You see it every summer. Garden centres are packed, retail parks are full, families are heading out for the day, and suddenly accessible spaces start disappearing to people who shouldn’t be using them.”
