Car park management companies have sent out more than 13 million parking charging notices in just nine months, an average of 4.3 million tickets per quarter. However, a criminal defense lawyer has revealed how drivers can avoid paying a parking ticket entirely, offering a welcome cost of living boost.
How to Get a Parking Ticket Reduced to £0
Lawyer Jeremy Rosenthal told Reader's Digest: “For those who read the fine print, there can be justice.” He explained that many parking tickets can be challenged successfully if drivers scrutinize the details. Marc A. Rapaport, also speaking to Reader's Digest, noted several ways a parking ticket could be found “legally invalid.” These include tickets that do not correctly state the date and time of the alleged infraction, or failure by the issuing officer to legibly print or sign their name.
Common Errors That Invalidate Tickets
Experts advise looking for errors such as incorrect street names, license plate numbers, vehicle make and model, time, or date. Any such mistake can render the ticket invalid, meaning drivers may not have to pay. However, Rosenthal warned that those who wait too long to respond or submit an appeal late could be marked under “warrant status,” which carries more serious consequences.
Difference Between Council and Private Parking Tickets
RAC head of policy Simon Williams highlighted the confusion between types of parking tickets. “Drivers are clearly confused by the PCN acronym which is concerning as they are very different in terms of consequences,” he said. A PCN sent by the council is a fine and must be paid, whereas a Parking Charge Notice issued by a private car park operator is an invoice for alleged breach of contract. The fact both can be placed on windscreens in identical bright yellow envelopes doesn't help, and Williams suspects they are deliberately designed to look similar to council penalty charge notices.
Industry Standards and Discounts
While the two private parking trade associations have set their industry PCNs at £100, they are regularly discounted by at least 40% for payment within 14 days. Fines issued by councils vary but are generally lower outside London and are all discounted by 50% for early payment. Another important difference occurs after the 28-day appeal window has closed, when an unpaid private Parking Charge Notice is often increased by £70 to £170 with a letter from a debt collection company.
Impact on Drivers
This rule offers a significant financial reprieve for drivers who receive parking tickets. With over 13 million notices issued in just nine months, the potential savings could be substantial. Drivers are encouraged to carefully check their tickets for errors and respond promptly to avoid escalation.
