Motorists are being urged to freshen up on the Highway Code to avoid a £1,000 fine when parking at nighttime.
With evenings slowly getting brighter, drivers are being warned against believing they can leave their cars anywhere on the street provided they avoid double yellow lines or driveways.
Parking confusion has become a hot topic on Reddit, with one motorist asking: "I've seen so many people parking like a***holes, and so many people stopping and parking in disabled bays while able-bodied and without a Blue Badge. I've seen people pulling onto the pavement over double yellows. I've seen people parking on pavement islands in the middle of the road. Do they really get away with it that easily?"
Under Rule 248 of the Highway Code, motorists are prohibited from leaving their vehicles on roads at night whilst facing opposite to the traffic direction, unless positioned in a designated parking bay.
Violating this regulation could land drivers with penalties reaching £1,000 for standard cars, whilst goods vehicles and minibuses face fines up to £2,500.
Police forces and local authorities both possess powers to impose these sanctions.
Motorists might also encounter insurance difficulties. Should you be involved in a collision whilst illegally parked, you could find yourself unable to make damage claims.
Insurance specialist Alicia Hempsted explained to MoneySuperMarket: "While this rule applies all year round, it's especially important after the clocks go back.
"Darker evenings and poor weather can make it harder for other drivers to see your vehicle. Parking in the same direction as traffic improves visibility and helps keep everyone safer on the roads.
"It also makes it easier and quicker to exit your parking space, reducing traffic obstruction and the risk of an accident with a distracted driver."
Driving instructor John outlined the crucial distinctions between parking and stopping according to UK legislation - and the time limit drivers have to drop off passengers or goods before it becomes problematic.
Parking
"Parking is defined as when a vehicle is stationary, with or without the driver, for at least three minutes.
"However, if you stop for more than three minutes to drop off or pick up passengers, or to load or unload goods, you are no longer considered to be parking as defined by the Road Traffic Act."
Stopping
"Stopping refers to a stationary vehicle, with or without the driver, for up to three minutes.
"Stopping due to congested traffic does not count as 'stopping' within the meaning of the Road Traffic Act."