Highway code rule meaning you might be parking incorrectly on driveways

Highway code rule meaning you might be parking incorrectly on driveways


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Many homeowners relish the convenience of a driveway, yet a specific Highway Code rule that governs its use is frequently ignored, potentially leading to daily infractions by drivers. Rule


201 of the Highway Code, which addresses reversing, states: "When using a driveway, reverse in and drive out if you can." This suggests that drivers should refrain from driving


forward into their driveway upon arrival. A motoring expert from Yell has shed light on this obscure rule, stating: "According to the rules of the road, drivers should reverse into


their driveways rather than driving in forward and reversing out later. While there's no specific law against it, reversing onto a busy road can be seen as careless and inconsiderate


driving, especially if it causes an obstruction or puts other road users at risk." They further clarified the rationale behind this guidance: "When you reverse into your driveway,


you have a clear view of approaching traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists. But when backing out onto the road, your line of sight is often limited, making it harder to spot hazards."


Moreover, the RAC has offered advice for those who return home to discover an unfamiliar vehicle parked on their property. After delving into driveway-related legislation, they concluded


that although parking on someone else's driveway is technically trespassing, it is unlikely that the police will get involved as it is considered a civil matter, not a criminal one,


reports the Express. Parking enforcement has shifted from police to local councils, who now issue penalty charge notices for public road offences. However, when a car is parked on private


property, like your driveway, it's outside council jurisdiction. The RAC suggests trying to settle such disputes amicably and warns against damaging or clamping the vehicle, which could


land you in legal hot water. Similarly, using a private tow company risks trouble if the car is damaged. The Ask The Police website cautions against taking actions like damaging, clamping,


or having the car removed without legal advice, as this could lead to criminal charges or civil action by the car owner. They also advise against pushing the car onto the road, which could


result in committing multiple offences. The website states: "Don't damage/clamp the vehicle or have it removed by a third party for destruction or storage without first seeking


legal advice. If you do any of these things, you may commit a criminal offence or the owner may pursue a civil action against you. Under no circumstances would we advocate you merely pushing


the vehicle on to a road and leaving it there as you may commit a number of offences." Legal routes can be taken, but taking civil action through the courts could be a drawn-out and


pricey affair. If it seems the car's been ditched, the council might step in, but that's only on the cards if the motor's sat idle a good while, isn't taxed, and is


visibly unfit for the road. The RAC cautions: "If the car is leaking petrol, contains dangerous items such as gas bottles or is parked dangerously, call 999 straight away."