Urgent warning drivers can be fined £100 for using parent-child bays even if they have a kid with them

DRIVERS have been warned they could face a hefty fine if they use a parent-child compartment, even if they have children in the car.

The bays, which are often located near the entrances to supermarkets, offer parents convenient parking and shopping opportunities.

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They were developed to make life a little easier, especially for mothers who are juggling children and shopping.

But now motorists have been warned they risk a £100 fine if they use the bays, even if there are children in the car.

The warning comes after a mother was ordered to pay £260 to use one of the vacant seats – for not actually taking her children out of the car, a report said the mirror.

The parking company claimed that the parents “didn’t need any extra space” because they didn’t unload their vehicle and pay the rate after parking their vehicle in the parent-child parking area.

And drivers are not allowed to use the bays if they have a child over the age of 12 in the car.

Most car parks are managed by companies who have their own rules, which also apply to children’s car parks. The rules must be made clear to all drivers.

Motorists could be hit with a hefty parking fee notice
up to £100 for misuse of the car park.

LeaseCar.uk’s Tim Alcock told The Sun: “Mums and dads will obviously enjoy using parent and child car parks, which are more convenient to park in and are in an area closer to the entrance to a shop.”

“Unfortunately, the rules can be a bit more complex than the name might suggest, and it’s all too easy to get caught.”
You land in hot water or get hit in the pocket.

“The number one piece of advice when considering using parent-child parking is to have your child with you and take them to the store.

“Read a parking lot’s signage, read the terms of use for that parking lot, and then follow the rules posted.”

The RAC says: “Parent and child areas are reserved for parents or guardians with one or more children under the age of 12. It’s unclear if pregnant women can use the areas, and it’s probably best to ask an individual store manager about their rules.”

“While it is not illegal to park in a parent-child lot if you are not traveling with a child under the age of 12, you could be hit with a Parking Fee Notice (PCN). Disabled drivers should use designated blue parking spaces.” Badge holders.