Drivers warned over £5,000 fine for little-known ‘harmless’ parking rule… and motorists do it every day

A CAR expert has revealed the unknown parking fine drivers could face ahead of Mother’s Day visits.

Drivers could see themselves having to cough up hefty sums for a common bad habit.

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Car guru Peter Waddell, from BigWantsYourCar.com, has warned drivers about a whopping £5,000 fine you could face for using somebody’s driveway.

This lesser-known parking rule could be done innocently, but just isn’t worth the hefty penalty.

You could face the £5,000 fee even if you just turn around on, or briefly park on, somebody else’s driveway.

If doing so, you need to ask permission – otherwise you risk facing legal consequences.

Waddell warned: “Even seemingly innocent actions, such as turning around or parking briefly when visiting loved ones, can lead to legal consequences if performed without permission.

“Drivers must respect private property rights and comply with relevant laws to avoid fines and legal issues.”

He added that it may appear harmless to the driver, but the legal ramifications are too high to risk it.

Waddell said that turning around on someone’s drive “technically” counts as trespassing, hence why it could result in criminal charges.

This is especially the case if any property damage occurs.

Waddell went on to warn drivers about the increased use of doorbell cameras, and how they could catch you out for property violations.

He said:“The increased use of doorbell cameras highlights the importance of respecting property boundaries and avoiding unauthorised use of driveways.

“It’s easier than ever to get caught trespassing, making it crucial for drivers to respect property boundaries and avoid unauthorised use of driveways.

“Violating these regulations can lead to fines of up to £5,000 for property damage, community orders, and potential prosecution.”

It comes after drivers were warned against parking on the pavement.

London has long been the centre of the issue, with the practice banned across all 32 boroughs.

Parking up on any part of a public highway that is not the road itself is covered by the prohibition.

This includes central reservations, grass verges and crossings.

In the capital, this is punished by a £35 fine, rising to £70 if not paid within 14 days.

And, as of December 11, Scottish councils also have the power to enforce new rules cracking down on pavement parking, double parking and parking at dropped kerbs.

Local authorities that choose to take on the new laws will see their areas become the first parts of the UK outside London where pavement parking is prohibited.

Drivers who fall foul of the rules can be issued a £50 penalty notice, rising to £100 if not paid within 14 days, or have their vehicle removed.

Although the Highland Council said they will begin a “grace period” in 2024, with warnings initially issued before fines.