As a new driver, you have a lot to learn. But even if you’ve been driving for years, you may miss out on certain rules, such as parking spots or speed limits. While this information should be covered by driving schools, a lot of driving instructors in London fail to impart minor details.
We care for our students, though, and that is why we have developed this blog section to fill you in on all the driving-related information. You must be aware of which areas are not authorised for parking to avoid running into trouble.
Sometimes, the traffic authorities put up signs to inform drivers they can’t park in an area. Other spots may not contain signs, but a good driver knows that they are not supposed to park there.
Where You Should Not Park:
If you are a newbie still practising your driving, you may not be aware of the general traffic rules. That is why, we have created this guide to inform you of the four most common places and scenarios in which parking is prohibited.
1. Yellow Lines:
As you steer towards main roads, you will encounter both single and double yellow lines. A single line is an indication of a no-parking zone on a particular stretch of road. This parking restriction is often applicable for a specific time of the day. When you enter a controlled parking zone or a specific zone, you will find time displays on signs lying around the entrance. Single lines are most frequently found in areas reserved for passenger drop-offs or pick-ups. You may be allowed to park for an hour at max before you would be required to move out of a single-line zone.
Alternatively, double lines do not allow waiting or parking. The highway code of conduct says that if you see a double yellow line, you are not allowed to park in that zone, nor are you permitted to wait for parking. The blue batch holders are the solo exception to this rule. If you have a blue badge, you can park in a double yellow line for three hours.
2. White Lines:
White lines are also widely spread across the roads of London. While solid white lines that are unbroken are specifically reserved for parking areas, that is not the case in every situation. Sometimes, single white lines are used to indicate the absence of pavement. In such a case, it is not allowed to park in a white line.
3. Residential Locations:
In residential locations, residents of that area are given priority in terms of parking. Bays of parking are marked to indicate the territory of a permit holder. Some parking spots are specifically reserved for permit holders at all times, whereas others are restricted for a particular period of time.
You will see signs displaying times when only permit holders are allowed to park. If you arrive at a time outside of that range, you can park in that area. Make sure that the position of the car does not block any pavement or driveways. It should not pose an inconvenience for residents, pedestrians or other people using the road.
4. Certain Car Parks:
Even when you are in a parking area, you must be mindful of where you park. Certain areas are reserved for disabled people or for parents arriving with kids. You should avoid such parking spots at all times. Some spots contain signs reading things like “two hours” or “return within one hour.” This is when you need to be considerate of time.
Here is a list of spaces where you should not park, or be careful while parking. If you are still confused about road parking, you can hire a reliable instructor to take driving lessons in London. Also, you can take these lessons from Champs Driving School. We have a well-versed team with all the driving-related knowledge, and will be able to guide you effectively.
