People might find themselves breaking the rule once the sun starts to set
Drivers are being made aware of a Highway Code ‘rule’ that is important to be mindful of during the dark winter evenings. The rule is very important for keeping other people on the roads and pavements safe after the sun goes down.
Today, January 27, the sun is scheduled to set at 4.41pm, meaning it’ll get dark for most people across the UK at 5pm. The dark skies make it harder to see clearly when behind the wheel – and that is when this rule comes into force as it focuses on safe driving at night.
According to Rule 248 of the Highway Code, people “must not park on a road at night facing against the direction of the traffic flow unless in a recognised parking space”. Most drivers who break this rule are likely to be making an innocent mistake, but being oblivious is no excuse for not following the rule of the Highway Code.
People might think that they can park this way up to a certain point before it becomes dangerous. But there’s a separate rule during the day.
The Highway Code states that drivers should aim to park in “off-street parking areas or bays marked out with white lines on the road as parking places” wherever possible. In many places, this simply isn’t possible, and for those who may have no choice but to park outside their home on the roadside.
If you have to stop on the roadside, the Highway Code states that people should “stop as close as you can” to the side, such as the kerb. Importantly, people are warned from the beginning that they must not “park facing against the traffic flow”, and this rule does not mention a specific time of day.
Breaking this rule could lead to a fine of up to £1,000 for cars, and up to £2,500 for goods vehicles or minibuses, but most start out at around £70. The rule can be enforced by both the police force and the local authority.
While sometimes overlooked during the day, it is highly recommended to always park in the direction of traffic to avoid obstructing flow and to ensure safety. Getting into the habit of avoiding this will mean there are no chances of getting into trouble for an innocent mistake.
Why is facing against the flow of traffic such a problem?
The idea behind the rule is all about safety. Rear reflectors on cars are designed to catch the headlights of approaching vehicles, making other drivers aware of parked cars, particularly in poorly lit areas.
Cars parked in the opposite direction won’t give off this signal, and could become a risk to drivers who might not see them. The fine can be issued anywhere drivers pose a potential risk, meaning it’s just as likely outside your own home as in public places.
“If you are involved in an accident as a result of breaking this Highway Code rule, you may also find that your car insurance won’t cover you for damages”, according to MoneySupermarket. Your insurer may deem you to be at fault for creating a hazard, potentially leading to rejected claims or a voided policy.
It adds: “Breaking this rule could lead to a fine of up to £1,000 for cars, and up to £2,500 for goods vehicles or minibuses. Both the police and local councils can issue these fines.”
Insurance expert Alicia Hempsted said: “Darker evenings and poor weather can make it harder for other drivers to see your vehicle. Parking in the same direction as traffic helps improve visibility and keeps everyone safer on the roads. Parking in the direction of traffic also makes it easier and faster to exit you parking space, minimising traffic obstruction and the chances of having an accident with a distracted driver.”
