Knowing how to answer the question, “What is double parking?” is one of the core foundations of being a safe driver.
By definition, double parking is illegally parking your car next to another correctly parked car within a stall or in the street.
Continue reading to learn all there is to know about double parking.
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What Is Double Parking?
Double parking is the act of leaving your vehicle next to a line of parked vehicles.
It’s “double” parking in the sense that there are two cars between the kerb and the traffic.
When parking spots are scarce or you’re only stopping for a short while, it may be tempting to leave your car parked in this position.
But doing so could impede those who have already parked legally and cause traffic congestion.
Furthermore, it is forbidden to park more than 50 cm from the curb.
It is up to local authority policy to determine whether double-parked cars are subject to a ticket if they are more than 50 cm from the curb.
Parking across a dropped kerb is also punishable by a fine.
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Is Double Parking Illegal?
The local authority will typically deal with double parking because it falls under decriminalized parking enforcement.
Instead of receiving a police fixed penalty notice, you will be charged with a civil penalty, and you won’t accrue license suspension points.
Most councils will issue a ticket for double parking if the vehicle is parked more than 50 cm from the curb.
The fine can range anywhere from 60 to 130 pounds, depending on where you are.
If paid within 14 days, this fine will typically be reduced by half.
It may be against the law to leave a car parked dangerously or in a way that prevents emergency personnel from getting to the scene.
An official legal document known as a fixed penalty notice could be issued to you.
If you don’t pay, you might be charged with a crime, which could result in a much higher fine.
Rules Of Double Parking
After reading this article and knowing exactly what is double parking and what the rules of double parking are, you may find it more enticing to avoid that “non-option” altogether. No one can deny, though, that during peak hours of the day it can be challenging to find a parking spot that is free. It might take you a while to find one, but finding a different spot to park in is the best course of action to avoid paying hefty fines, having your car towed, and getting points on your license.
You have the final say in your decision. Just be aware that one method is permitted while the other is not. Double parking is never the best option, no matter how late you are or how irritated you are, if you want to maintain your driving record and maximize everyone’s safety on the road.
What Are The Consequences Of Double Parking?
Parking two vehicles side by side is prohibited and is punishable by a fine. Each state has different traffic violation fines for doing so, for example:
- New York – $115
- Kansas – $50 to $100
- Kentucky – $25 and up
- Colorado – $10
- Arkansas – $20
- California – $65
Traffic congestion is intolerable and can aggravate drivers to the point of causing accidents, especially in crowded cities. Additionally, those who double park make it very challenging for other drivers to move their cars.
What Should You Do If Someone Double Parks?
If parked vehicles have been left in an illegal manner, you can report them to the appropriate local authority.
Your neighborhood council will frequently be this.
Many offer online forms that worried neighbors can use.
The non-emergency police phone number is 101.
Call 999 if you believe the vehicle is parked in such a way that it poses a direct risk to life.
How To Avoid Double Parking?
Double parking is not recommended, and violators may be subject to penalties. An alternative that people can take to avoid making it easier for themselves and other drivers is to do something else.
The safest course of action is to make a few circuits of the busy street if you are driving down it and notice that there are already other cars parked where you usually do. You can park a little further away from your usual spot to get to your destination if there is no chance of parking on the desired street. Nothing beats a little exercise, in any case!
Another option is to leave your car at home and get to your destination by bus or train. You can also prepay for a parking space to avoid having to look around and have someone else take your spot.
