What is double parking and is it illegal?

It can be tempting to park your car in the first available spot, particularly when you have been looking for a parking space for a while.

However, don't be tempted to double park as this could mean that you will face a fine. Here’s everything you need to know about double parking.

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What is double parking?

Double parking means that you have parked your car next to a row of already parked cars.

In other words, there are two cars between the kerb and traffic.

This can obstruct people who parked legally and can disrupt traffic.

To avoid an accident, avoid double parking.

Parking more than 50cm from the kerb or parking across a dropped kerb is also against the rules, which could result in a traffic warden giving you a ticket.

Will I get prosecuted for double parking?

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Double parking is illegal and traffic wardens may hand out fines, if they find that you have double parked.

Double parking is illegal as you will be more than 50cm from the kerb.

This amount that you pay will be determined by local authorities.

You won’t face points on your license, as it is a civil penalty charge and not a police matter.

If you do not pay your fine, matters may escalate further and you could get prosecuted.

What should you do if someone has double parked?

If your car has been trapped by someone who has double parked, then you can report it.

Many local councils have online forms that make the process easy.

Alternatively, if the matter is more urgent, you can phone the police non-emergency number 101.

If the matter is urgent and could cause danger, then phoning 999 is advised.