Rip Off Britain: Lawyer Gary Rycroft gives tips on parking tickets
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With Christmas a matter of days away, Britons are preparing for last-minute shopping, with drivers heading out to find parking before they hit the shops. Google searches for “Christmas city centre parking” has increased by 130 percent in the last month alone, showing drivers are preparing for busy weeks ahead. Experts have called on drivers to take tips into account this month.
Research before leaving
Parking a car in major towns and cities in the UK can be a challenge at the best of times, so it is best to research the area before setting off.
Motorists are encouraged to check which car parks are likely to fill up quickly or be busy all day, with Google Maps showing when areas will peak in traffic.
Researching is even more important this time of the year because popular locations will hold events, and restaurants will be busier with work parties.
Get there early
Harrison Woods, CEO at YourParkingSpace, said: “While this might seem obvious, heading out of the house as early as possible is the easiest way to secure a parking space.
“By heading out to find a car parking space before the shops have opened, you can beat the crowds and have a full choice of parking spaces – and even have time to grab a morning coffee before the rush.
“Alternatively, shoppers should consider heading to their favourite shops late in the evening for a quieter trip – with many stores keeping opening until 9pm for the festive season.”
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Utilise back streets
Many people will naturally head straight to the car parks in the main shopping area, although large urban centres will often have parking available in back streets.
While these back streets are often a short walk away from the shops since they are in residential areas, these parking spots are often free of charge and more likely to be available throughout the day.
Drivers should, however, still keep an eye out to ensure they are not fined for overstaying, with some street parking having limits of 45 or 90 minutes.
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Head to the top floor
Another mistake some drivers make is to look around the first few floors of a multi-storey car park in order to spot a space.
These are usually well reserved or taken up early in the day, so drivers may be better off driving to the top deck to get a space.
With busier periods and late-night shopping all taking place now, drivers will be better off parking on the top floor where spaces are more plentiful.
Think outside the box
Mr Woods concluded, saying: “The panic of trying to grab a parking spot around Christmas can cause many drivers to forget the unusual options that can have them secure a space.
“From a gym to your place of work, there will be various alternative spaces that allow you to hit your Christmas shopping quicker than ever.
“However, just remember to check the rules of parking in these areas.”
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