There are a number of road markings that drivers need to be aware of as they indicate strict rules for that portion of the road
Motorists could be facing a hefty £70 fine for just parking in the wrong spot. Britain’s roads are lined with a plethora of road markings, each signifying strict regulations every qualified driver should know.
Flouting these demarcations not only shows ignorance but might also result in considerable penalties. Take the yellow zigzag lines frequently spotted outside schools; they’re paired with a ‘School Keep Clear’ sign to prevent dangerous parking that could blockade kids from crossing safely.
But it’s important to remember that these zigzag patterns aren’t just for schools – they’re vital at other spots too, like police stations, hospitals and fire stations, where clear access is crucial.
Rule 192 of the Highway Code concerning pedestrian crossings is explicit: “You MUST NOT park on a crossing or in the area covered by the zig-zag lines. You MUST NOT overtake the moving vehicle nearest the crossing or the vehicle nearest the crossing which has stopped to give way to pedestrians.”
Fine for parking on zigzag lines
Penalties meted out for encroaching on these zigzags can vary, with local councils and the police both wielding the power to issue fines. If caught by the police, the penalty could be more severe with a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of £100 plus three points on your licence. However, councils typically impose a lesser charge of £70 which can be halved if the fine is paid within the period specified in the ticket.
There are generally few exceptions that would permit you to contest a fine for parking on zigzag lines. However, Rule 243 of the Highway code does state that motorists shouldn’t park near a school entrance unless forced to do so by stationary traffic.
It also states that motorists shouldn’t stop or park:
