Survey indicates motorists are puzzled by parking policies

A new survey released today has indicated that British motorists are becoming more and more confused by car parking rules and regulations.

According to research conducted by esure car insurance, 74 per cent of drivers failed to recognise all Highway Code rules for parking.

More than 90 per cent admitted to feeling confused about parking regulations.

Analysis of the figures shows that local authorities now having the power to change parking regulations has exacerbated the problem.

A third of those polled said parking policies in their area changed frequently, while 58 per cent said such changes made them confused.

More than half of those questioned said they had encountered parking signs that contradicted each other in the same area.

60 per cent said they believed parking signs were deliberately misleading, in order to raise funds via fines.
Mike Pickard, head of risk and underwriting at esure car insurance, said: "As more and more local councils take on Decriminalised Parking Enforcement, it is important to check with your local authority for any signs specific to your area that you don't understand.

"Although parking violations won't affect your insurance premium, they can significantly affect the overall cost of running a car, so do your best to avoid them. And of course, if you don't think a parking penalty was fair then take the time to contest it.

Refer to the terms of the Road Traffic Act but above all, keep a copy of the Highway Code in your glove box as a reference - to avoid parking in the wrong place all together."