Research has found that hundreds of blue badge holders are breaking one major rule, which could land them with a hefty £1,000 fine – here’s everything you need to know
Blue badge holders are being warned that they could face fines of up to £1,000 and risk having their badges taken away for breaking a vital rule.
An investigation by Birmingham Live found that hundreds of blue badges have been exploited by individuals other than the rightful holder in recent years. In some instances, it’s possible the badge owners weren’t even aware of the misuse.
However, badge holders who deliberately let others, like family or friends, use their badges to dodge parking restrictions face major penalties. It comes after Brits are told to never put one banned item in garden bins, as you could face punishment.
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Specialists are warning that the trend of “borrowing Grandma’s badge” for free, handy parking is on the rise. And those with blue badges should never allow someone else to use them.
Taking advantage of these badges typically results in cars parked in disabled bays or on double yellow lines as drivers try to skirt parking laws. Such misuse might enable them to nab a spot closer to supermarket doors, or to cheekily park on double yellows where those without disabilities or medical conditions would normally get a ticket.
Shockingly, a number of motorists have been caught red-handed using badges issued to deceased individuals. This will likely have included relatives, continuing to wrongfully use the badges long after their loved ones have passed away.
Freedom of information data has revealed 78 such disgraceful cases since 2021. The British Parking Association (BPA) has also revealed that blue badge misuse has soared by over 1,000% since 2016.
Alison Tooze, chief engagement and policy officer at the BPA, expressed her dismay: “The statistics around the level of blue badge misuse and fraud are shocking. We cannot continue to ignore this issue, especially when the victims are some of the most vulnerable in our society.
“Badge holders rely on accessible parking to carry out their day-to-day activities and for many it is a vital part of living an independent life.
“Perpetrators of blue badge misuse and fraud deprive genuine badge holders of this right to freedom, whilst costing ordinary taxpayers millions every year. This must stop.”
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