Drivers incurring more parking tickets

The number of parking tickets being issued by local authorities is rising, new figures reveal.

Data published by the Traffic Penalty Tribunal shows councils in England and Wales handed out a total of 4.24 million fines over the year to March 2010.

This number has climbed from around 2.5 million in 2003 and fewer than 800,000 in the 12 months to March 2001, according to the Telegraph.

Changes in legislation have contributed towards the sharp increase, it suggests, with "decriminalisation" of parking violations seeing councils assume greater responsibility for tickets rather than police forces.

Local authorities are also increasingly permitted to keep the funds generated by fines, although they are barred from using them to generate revenue.

"Local authorities that are showing a big surplus in their parking budgets should look carefully at every area of their operation," the RAC's Professor Stephen Glaister told the news source.

The Daily Mail has reported that a single hospital trust, University Hospitals Birmingham, issued a total of 18,600 parking fines in a single year alone at the three sites it operates.

 

We search our panel of leading underwriters to find you the best policy

Why choose Performance Direct?

  1. The latest digital systems. Our customers enjoy all the advantages of the digital world. We offer excellent web and app-based insurance services, including a fast, easy-to-use quote engine and automated customer services allowing hassle-free access to documents and information.

  2. The peace of mind of a Chartered Broker. Everything we do is backed by a team of skilled, experienced insurance professionals. We’re a Chartered Insurance Broker, a family company with a proud 40-year history, so we’re bound by a personal and professional code to deliver the best service for our clients.

Chartered Insurance Broker badge
  1. We’re independent. Because we’re not tied to any brand or product, we can search the car insurance market to get you the best policies­—from third party policies to fully comprehensive cover. Whenever you ask for a new or a renewal quote, our systems search a panel of up to 100 leading UK underwriters to ensure you get the lowest price and the best policy.

  2. We’re on your side. If you need to make a claim, because we’re completely independent, we work with you to sort everything out and to make sure your claim is paid. Whether you need to sort out a hire car or a new windscreen, our claims service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

  3. Here for you. Your Online Insurance Account, support features, and on-line quotations are available 24/7, and our office is open 6 days a week.

Combining the advantages of the latest technology with real world experience, Performance Direct promises the lowest prices with the most efficient service.