Start Rescue has issued a warning to drivers about age limits for parent and child parking spaces at major UK supermarkets, including Tesco, Morrisons, and Sainsbury's. Motorists who ignore the rules risk being asked to move their vehicles or face fines.
Age Limit Rules Vary by Supermarket
According to Start Rescue, general rules for parent and child parking spaces require drivers to be accompanied by a child aged 12 or under. The motoring organisation stated: “Rules among supermarkets vary when it comes to child/parent parking spaces. In general, to park in a child/parent parking space, you should be accompanied by a child aged 12 or less.”
Drivers who park in these spaces without a child may be asked to move their vehicle via the supermarket’s public address system. A fine could also be levied for those who refuse to comply.
Growing Frustration Among Motorists
Ian Wilson, car insurance expert and managing director at Tiger.co.uk, said motorists are becoming increasingly frustrated by those who ignore the rules. He commented: “Our research suggests many motorists are growing increasingly frustrated by drivers who ignore the rules when it comes to parent and child spaces, and there is strong support for more car park operators to take tougher measures to discourage motorists from abusing these reserved bays.”
The age limit of 12 years old applies at many supermarkets, including Tesco, Morrisons, and Sainsbury's. Drivers should check specific signs posted on lampposts around car parks to confirm the age limit at their chosen store.
Advice for Drivers with Children
Avalon Motor Company also advised that parent and child spaces should not be used if a young passenger intends to remain in the vehicle while the driver shops. The company clarified: “Whilst it can seem ambiguous as to who can park there, we’re here to clear things up: you can park in a parent and child parking space if you’re entering the shop with a child that is under 12 years old. If you’re going into the shop on your own and leaving a child with another adult in the car, you must use an ordinary parking space.”
Drivers are urged to respect the designated spaces to avoid fines and inconvenience to others.
