When doing the supermarket shop many drivers can be tempted to try and park as close as possible, especially if it’s lashing with rain.
But motorists have been warned they are risking a huge fine if they choose a bay that is usually closest to the store, even if they believe they are complying with the rules.
And they’ve been urged to avoid parent and child parking spaces unless they fully comply with their rules by vehicle retailer Wilsons.
While you might think it’s fine to use these parking bays if you have a child in the car – there are more specific rules for these spots, reports the Express.
In a blog post Wilsons explained that you have to be taking your child into the supermarket with you to be able to use one of the spaces.
They said: “Parent and child parking bays are reserved specifically for parents or guardians travelling with one or more children under 12 years old in the vehicle. However, these spaces are only available to parents who need to take a child (or children) with them into the supermarket or shopping centre.
“If you are planning to leave a child (or children) in the vehicle under the care of another adult for a short period of time, it is encouraged that you use a regular parking bay instead.”
These types of spaces are designed with wider bays, for easier access to buggies and prams and are located closer to the shop to prevent youngsters from having to cross busy areas.
But Wilsons also highlighted that pregnant motorists or passengers may also be able to use parent and child parking spaces, although this is typically determined on a case-by-case basis.
However, in most cases, drivers cannot use these spaces unless they have a child who is under 12 years of age with them and they are also going into the shop.
And Motorists who break this rule could face a Parking Charge Notice (PCN) of up to £100.
As a result, it is vital for drivers to check the rule signs located throughout the public car park to check whether they are eligible to use the spaces.
Wilsons advised: “This question is very much debatable and can vary from car park to car park. Whether a pregnant person can park in a parent and child parking space is down to how much it is needed.
“For this reason, if a woman is heavily pregnant then it is very much acceptable for her to park in a bay usually designated for parents with children.
“This is because it can become more difficult for a pregnant person to get in and out of a car in the later stages of pregnancy, so she will need more space.”
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