Experts have warned the assumption that the Highway Code does not apply in supermarket car parks could prove costly, as the same laws and regulations on public roads are in place
Many Brit motorists mistakenly believe the usual rules of the road do not apply in supermarket car parks — a major mistake that could lead to serious sanctions.
However, road safety experts have warned the assumption that the Highway Code does not apply in these areas could cost you a small fortune, as the same laws and regulations in place on public roads are also applicable in supermarket car parks. Failing to follow these rules could result in hefty fines of up to £1,000.
Road safety expert at My Car Reg Check, Sarah Jenkins, said: “[Highway Code] Rule 244 isn’t simply a matter of courtesy. Using spaces reserved for disabled drivers when you’re not entitled can result in serious legal consequences.
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“In private supermarket car parks, misusing a disabled bay can trigger a £70 to £100 Penalty Charge Notice. Where the bay is statutory and enforced under traffic regulations, fines can escalate to £1,000 — particularly if fraudulent badge use is involved.”
The warning doesn’t stop at disabled spaces. Parent-and-child bays are increasingly being monitored by supermarkets. They often employ security systems to ensure only eligible drivers make use of them.
Sarah explained: “Supermarkets are aware of the legislation — many employ CCTV and private enforcement teams to monitor car park use. If you’re caught parking where you shouldn’t, you risk fines, enforcement action, or even being banned from using the car park entirely.”
Beyond reserved bays, other common mistakes made in supermarket car parks also breach the Highway Code. Parking on zig-zag lines near pedestrian crossings is prohibited under Rule 240 and remains illegal even if a driver intends to stop only briefly.
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Rule 239 addresses obstruction, stating that motorists must not park across bays, block access routes, or stop in a way that endangers pedestrians. Unsafe or inconsiderate driving can also fall under Rule 146, covering behaviours including speeding, ignoring one-way systems and failing to show consideration to other drivers.
Additionally, Rule 238 explains that vehicles should not be parked facing the wrong direction at night in car parks that are unlit, as this increases the risk of accidents. The consequences of ignoring these rules can be serious.
Expert Sarah added: “Car parks may feel like private land with different rules, but drivers are still expected to follow the Highway Code. Treat them with the same caution as the road — because the fines, penalties, and risks are very real.”
Knowing the Highway Code is important, as Gov.uk guidance stresses: “The Highway Code is essential reading for all road users, including pedestrians, mobility scooter users, cyclists, horse riders, drivers and motorcyclists.”
A simple lapse in judgement while driving in a supermarket car park can prove to be extremely expensive, so to avoid hefty fines and make shopping as easy as possible for everyone, treat them with the same respect you treat the road.
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