A frequently overlooked Highway Code rule regarding driveway reversing could be leading to daily driving violations. The RAC also offers advice on dealing with unfamiliar vehicles parked on private property.
Many homeowners appreciate the ease of having a driveway, but a specific Highway Code rule governing its use is often overlooked, potentially leading to daily driving violations. Rule 201 of the Highway Code , which addresses reversing, states: 'When using a driveway, reverse in and drive out if you can.' This implies that drivers should avoid driving forward into their driveway upon arrival.
A motoring expert from Yell has shed light on this little-known rule, stating: 'According to the rules of the road, drivers should reverse into their driveways rather than driving in forward and reversing out later. While there's no specific law against it, reversing onto a busy road can be seen as careless and inconsiderate driving, especially if it causes an obstruction or puts other road users at risk.' They further explained the reasoning behind this advice: 'When you reverse into your driveway, you have a clear view of approaching traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists. But when backing out onto the road, your line of sight is often limited, making it harder to spot hazards.'Moreover, the RAC has offered guidance for those who return home to find an unfamiliar vehicle parked on their property. After examining driveway-related legislation, they concluded that although parking on someone else's driveway is technically trespassing, it is unlikely that the police will intervene as it is considered a civil matter, not a criminal one, according to the Express. Parking enforcement has shifted from police to local councils, who now issue penalty charge notices for public road offences. However, when a car is parked on private property, like your driveway, it's outside council jurisdiction. The RAC suggests trying to resolve such disputes amicably and warns against damaging or clamping the vehicle, which could lead to legal complications. Similarly, using a private tow company risks trouble if the car is damaged. The Ask The Police website cautions against taking actions like damaging, clamping, or having the car removed without legal advice, as this could result in criminal charges or civil action by the car owner. They also advise against pushing the car onto the road, which could result in committing multiple offences. The website states: 'Don't damage/clamp the vehicle or have it removed by a third party for destruction or storage without first seeking legal advice. If you do any of these things, you may commit a criminal offence or the owner may pursue a civil action against you. Under no circumstances would we advocate you merely pushing the vehicle on to a road and leaving it there as you may commit a number of offences.'Legal avenues can be pursued, but taking civil action through the courts could be a lengthy and costly process. If it appears the car has been abandoned, the council might intervene, but that's only a possibility if the vehicle has been stationary for a considerable time, is untaxed, and is clearly unfit for the road. The RAC cautions: 'If the car is leaking petrol, contains dangerous items such as gas bottles or is parked dangerously, call 999 straight away.
Highway Code Driveway Reversing Traffic Violations Parking Enforcement Trespassing
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