Loophole lets drivers free to park on your car as experts warn ‘don’t do it’

Homeowners are being warned they could be left helpless if another driver parks in their driveway this summer. That’s according to experts at The Workplace Depot, who highlight a particular legal loophole that leaves authorities unable to assist and homeowners struggling to find a solution.

Rule 243 of the Highway Code outlines 12 locations where drivers cannot park, such as near the entrance of a school, near a bus or tram stop, near the top of a hill and in front of the entrance to a property. However, it does not mention parking in someone else’s driveway.

If another driver were to park on your car, it would be considered trespassing and therefore a civil matter. The police do not have the authority to remove the vehicle, and as it is on private property, local authorities are unlikely to intervene.

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The Workplace Depot team says one option is for homeowners to take preventative measures to avoid this situation. They suggest installing parking posts and bollards or an extendable barrier on the drive to limit access.

Other tips include adding a gate to the property as a deterrent and installing cameras if you have recurring problems. But they strongly advise against taking matters into your own hands.

Towing your vehicle can lead to criminal damage charges, just like any car vandalism. It also offers advice on how to deal with the problem, including taking it easy and, if it’s a persistent problem, considering legal action.

A spokesperson for The Workplace Depot said: “Nobody wants to come home to see a stranger’s car on the road, but this bizarre legal loophole makes it possible. For most of us this is unlikely to be a problem, but if you live in an area. where parking may be difficult, such as near a busy hospital or in a town or city centre, then there is technically nothing to stop a driver parking your car as it is not considered a violation of the law and seen as a civil matter, there is very little the authorities can do. For a homeowner, the best course of action if you find a strange car on the road is to calmly speak to the owner.”

The spokesperson continued: “If you are concerned, there are preventative measures you can take to restrict access to the facility. The easiest way is to install parking poles in the driveway. They will secure your parking area and restrict access to unauthorized vehicles. Other options include collapsible barriers that can be conveniently stored when not in use and parking security bollards. The one thing you should never do is take matters into your own hands if you have a persistent problem – you could end up being prosecuted. .”

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