Aldi, Asda, Sainsbury's Parking: The Rule You Might Not Know
Drivers are being warned they risk a fine if they break parking rules relating to "age limits" in supermarket car parks, including those at Aldi, Asda, Sainsbury's and Morrisons. Most supermarkets offer parent and child parking spaces, which are designed to give families more room to move around and load their vehicles.
These parking spots are usually located close to the shop's front door, giving those with permits quick and simple access without a long trek. However, the rules aren't always clear, and some shops don't put up clear signs showing who's allowed to park there.
Experts are currently warning people that they might face penalties if they contravene this relatively obscure regulation, according to reports. the Express.
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The EMG Motor Group's specialists commented that the regulations were "fairly simple" to understand: the designated parking spaces are exclusively for use by parents or carers who have a child under the age of 12 with them when visiting the store. The age of 12 was chosen as it's the age up to which children legally need to be in car seats or restraints while in a vehicle.
This advice is prompted by recent alerts to parents regarding child car seat rules, which could result in significant fines over the summer break. Regarding parking at supermarkets, although there isn't a specific law, drivers could be hit with a £100 charge.
EMG Motor Group experts explained: "Actually, there's no legal prohibition against parking in a parent and child space if you don't have a child under the age of 12 with you. However, you do run the risk of getting a Parking Charge Notice, just as you would if you were to misuse a disabled parking spot."
The reason for this is that these car parks are typically privately held, often by places like supermarkets. This allows them to implement regulations as permitted by their membership in an Accredited Trade Association (ATA). If you're unsure about the specific rules of a car park, it's advisable to confirm them with the shop or venue you're visiting to avoid the risk of receiving a parking charge, potentially as high as £100, attached to your car's windscreen.
Despite this, it's still not clear if pregnant women are allowed to use these parking spaces and take advantage of the extra room they offer. According to the RAC, "Parent and child parking spaces are specifically for parents or carers who have children under the age of 12. It's not certain if expectant mothers are permitted to use them, so it's advisable to check with the manager of each shop to find out their specific policy."
As the school holidays approach, parents are being urged to ensure their children are safely restrained in cars, with drivers potentially facing penalties of up to £500 for non-compliance. Gerry Bucke, the top boss at Adrian Flux, a motor insurance expert, said: "This summer, kids will be getting lifts from all sorts of people during the school break.
It's easy to forget things when you're packing, particularly for day trips, and we've all encountered someone who leaves behind a car seat or tries to avoid using one altogether. With boots and back seats crammed full of luggage and beach gear, people might be tempted to cut corners with car seats just to get going and reach their destination faster.
From a safety perspective, it's simply not worth the risk, and getting caught and fined could make what's already a pricey time of year even more so.
As per Rule 100 in the Highway Code, youngsters are OBLIGED to travel in a child car seat until they reach the age of 12 or a height of 1.35 metres (roughly 4ft 5in), depending on which comes sooner. Further rules stipulate that infants must be positioned in rear-facing seats, children should not be placed in seats where there's a live front airbag, and all safety devices must be properly installed in line with the manufacturer's guidelines. More information is provided below.