An expert has warned that drivers who obstruct someone's driveway or park over the boundary could face fines.
The warning from motoring gurus and car experts impacts tradespeople with larger vehicles like trucks and vans in particular. Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, has issued the warning.
He said: "Ever stepped outside only to find a van blocking your driveway? Frustrating doesn't even begin to cover it, especially when you're trying to get to work, do the school run, or take a vulnerable family member to an appointment.
"What seems like a quick parking job to a tradesperson can turn into a major disruption to your day."
He said: "The law is often on the side of the homeowners and there are simple steps you can take to avoid it ruining your day."
These fines can reach £100, depending on the local authority. The Traffic Management Act 2004 prohibits parking adjacent to a dropped kerb regardless of whether or not you are blocking someone in.
In the West Midlands, in Coventry, council officials say residents must properly apply to have a dropped kerb installed if they want to park on their own property. If persistent offenders fail to comply the council can install one anyway and force the resident to pay the full cost - an average of about £1,200.Alternatively, the council could block drivers from accessing their own homes by installing bollards.
If you intend to drive a vehicle over the footway into your driveway off a highway, then you will need a dropped kerb.
If you do not have dropped kerb, you must not drive over the footway. If you do so, you are breaking the law and enforcement action could be taken to prevent such practice.
