Motorists across the UK could face hefty fines of up to £1,000, or even £2,500 in some cases, for parking incorrectly on their own street, due to a little-known rule in the Highway Code. The rule in question, Highway Code Rule 248, states that drivers must not park on a road at night facing against the direction of traffic flow, unless they are parked in a recognised parking space.
Car insurance expert Alicia Hempstead from MoneySuperMarket explained that the rule, though often overlooked, is in place for an important safety reason. “Highway Code Rule 248 is a little-known but important safety rule,” she said. “It means drivers must not park against the flow of traffic at night unless they’re in a marked parking bay. Breaking this rule could lead to a fine of up to £1,000 for cars, and up to £2,500 for goods vehicles or minibuses. Both the police and local councils can issue these fines.”
While the rule applies all year round, Ms Hempstead warned that it becomes particularly important during the darker months.
She said: “After the clocks go back, darker evenings and poor weather make it harder for other drivers to see your vehicle. Parking in the same direction as traffic helps improve visibility and keeps everyone safer on the roads.”
The RAC has echoed this advice, reminding drivers to always park facing the same direction as the traffic flow and to take extra precautions when leaving their vehicle.
“Stop as close as possible to the roadside. The engine, headlights and fog lights must be switched off, and the handbrake must be applied before leaving the car,” the RAC advises.
“Passengers should exit the vehicle on the side next to the kerb, valuables should be kept out of sight, and the car locked.”
The RAC also highlights that parking lights must be used when leaving a vehicle on a road or layby with a speed limit above 30mph.
Drivers should check their vehicle handbook to understand how to activate these lights, as the method can vary between models.
