Shoppers at major UK supermarkets are being urged to check the rules before using parent and child parking bays, following a stark warning that misuse could lead to hefty fines. The alert comes after a study highlighted widespread confusion, with one mother reportedly slapped with a £260 penalty.
The Rising Tide of Parking Penalties
Research from Confused.com has uncovered that a significant 25 per cent of parent and child parking spaces are being misused. This isn't a minor oversight, as offenders are facing real financial consequences. Cases include not only the mother fined £260 but also a pregnant woman who received a £70 fine for using a designated bay.
These spaces, commonly found at supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Morrisons, are privately managed. Stuart Snape, managing partner at Graham Coffey & Co Solicitors, explains the legal landscape. "Most parent and child spaces are usually found within private car parks at supermarkets or shopping centres," he said. "As a result, the owners of those car parks can effectively set their own conditions of use."
Navigating the Rulebook: Age Limits and Grey Areas
While using the spaces incorrectly is not a criminal offence, breaching the car park owner's terms can be costly. "Using the spaces incorrectly is not illegal but if it is in breach of the conditions of use it can land you with a hefty fine," Snape cautioned.
A common source of confusion is the age limit for children. Typically, spaces are intended for children up to 12 years old, but rules can vary. "In theory, the rules might differ from one car park to another, but generally, if the child with you is under 12, you should be okay," Snape advised.
The situation for pregnant women is even less clear. Both the RAC and legal experts state there is very little guidance. The decision often rests with the individual store or car park operator. The consensus is to ask the store manager beforehand to avoid an unexpected penalty.
Why the Rules Exist and How to Avoid a Fine
Stuart Snape highlighted the primary purpose of the bays: "Generally the purpose of these spaces is to provide greater space to get children in and out of the car. They are also often located nearer to the entrance to help avoid younger children having to walk across busy car parks."
He also pointed out a critical, often overlooked rule: "It's also worth remembering that leaving children in the car without an adult is probably going to breach the car park terms and conditions."
With the festive shopping season in full swing, the warning is timely. Shoppers are encouraged to be vigilant. While Snape acknowledges the absurdity of expecting a parent with young children to scrutinise terms and conditions, he stresses that awareness is the best defence against a surprise fine from a private parking company.
