Drivers across the UK face a fine of up to £1,000 for breaking a simple parking rule at night.
While there are no rules against parking your car by the side of the road on an evening, drivers may not be aware that if their car is facing the wrong direction, it could leave them thousands of pounds out of pocket. Rule 248 of the Highway Code states that drivers who park on a road at night must only do so if their car is facing the direction of the traffic flow. Facing the wrong way means that other drivers can’t clearly see your rear reflectors, making it difficult for your car to be spotted under the cover of darkness.
The Highway Code says: “You MUST NOT park on a road at night facing against the direction of the traffic flow unless in a recognised parking space.”
Drivers who fail to park their cars in accordance with the rules face a fine of up to £1,000, rising to £2,500 for vans and minibuses.
Graham Conway, managing director of leading vehicle leasing firm Select Car Leasing, explains: "The Highway Code makes it clear you must not park your car facing towards the flow of traffic on a road at night unless you’re in a marked bay.
"If you break it, you’re risking a fine of up to £1,000, while for vans and minibuses it can soar to £2,500. Correctly parked cars light up in headlights thanks to rear reflectors. Facing the wrong way, you’re practically invisible.”
Salvage firms say they’ve seen countless cars written off after being struck while parked facing towards traffic during the hours of darkness.
The warning comes as many motorists admit they’ve never heard of the rule or have simply forgotten about it since passing their test.
On narrow streets, some drivers find it easier to pull in on the opposite side, but after dark, this could land you in serious trouble.
Mr Conway adds: "The Highway Code’s Rule 248 is crystal clear and police are more than willing to enforce it. The best approach to avoid getting into trouble or causing a collision is always park in the same direction as traffic on your side of the road, stick to marked bays where possible, and think about visibility if you are stopping somewhere unlit.
"Ignorance isn’t an excuse - whether you’re in a busy city or a quiet village, this rule applies. Get it wrong and you could face an eye-watering bill before you’ve even put the key in the ignition."