Motorists visiting their local supermarket have been urged not to break a lesser-known rule that could see them face a penalty charge notice (PCN) of up to £100.
No matter on the supermarket they visit, parking can be a frustrating experience, with many motorists fighting over the same spaces as soon as they become free.
However, in a blog post, the vehicle recycler Charles Trent warned drivers to never use a parent and child space if they do not have an occupant of a certain age with them.
They explained: “Generally the cut-off is 12 years old, although there are exceptions for older children with special needs or disabilities. Restrictions and exceptions can be found on signage in the car park you are using.
“If a parking space is reserved for parents and children anybody misusing this space can receive a parking penalty notice. Most car parks will allow these spaces to be used by heavily pregnant women, although this needs confirming before parking.”
Almost all supermarket car parks, which are generally owned by private parking firms, feature parent and child spaces – typically placed particularly close to the shop’s doors to prevent young children from having to encounter moving traffic.
Whilst the spaces can be incredibly convenient, and also quieter than most other spaces in the car park, drivers should only use them if they have a child on board who is under the age of 12.
Motorists who use one of these spaces without a child could receive a PCN of up to £50, which could increase to a maximum of £100 if it is not paid in time.
Similarly, Charles Trent also noted that motorists must have their child on board when they enter the car park, warning that simply having a booster seat fitted is not enough.
They added: “Some people believe that they can use these spaces simply by virtue of them being a parent, which isn’t the case. Having empty baby seats in the back of your car doesn’t mean you need the extra room and close proximity to the shops.”
Similarly, children must enter the supermarket with their parent in order to prevent motorists risking the significant penalty.