How Long Can You Keep Your Car Parked Illegally After Receiving a Ticket?

Receiving a parking ticket can be a frustrating experience. You might wonder, 'How long can I keep my car parked illegally after receiving a ticket?' The answer depends on various factors, including location and the type of violation. In this article, we will explore the timelines from receiving a ticket to having your vehicle towed, and the potential consequences of illegal parking.

How Is Parking Time Calculated?

The duration you can leave your car parked illegally after receiving a ticket varies widely. In some cases, your vehicle could be towed as soon as the ticket is issued. In other situations, you might be able to leave your car parked illegally for an extended period. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Timed Parking Spots: In timed parking spots, you can typically be ticketed every hour until you move your car. For example, if you stay in a 1-hour parking spot for 3 hours, a new ticket will be issued each hour. Timed Zones: In timed zones, you can be ticketed until the 2-hour limit expires, and you might receive tickets for each additional 2-hour interval you exceed the limit. Unlimited Parking Zones: In these areas, you can be ticketed repeatedly until your vehicle is towed. The vehicle will be towed to a storage facility, where you will have to pay fines and storage charges if you do not claim it.

What Happens After Receiving a Ticket?

Once you receive a parking ticket, the penalties can escalate rapidly unless you comply with the guidelines:

Two-Hour Parking Zones: If you are parked in a two-hour zone, you could receive a ticket every two hours you remain illegally parked. Tow Zones: In many urban areas, tow zones are enforced, and your vehicle will be towed as soon as you receive a ticket. Tow trucks can arrive as quickly as 11 minutes after the ticket is issued, especially during rush hour traffic. Impounding: If you do not move your car, it will be impounded after a certain period, typically within a week. During this time, you will be charged for impoundment fees. If you do not claim the car and pay the fines, it might eventually be auctioned to recover costs. Additional Tickets: If the vehicle remains parked illegally when the police return for another round, an additional ticket will be issued, and the process will continue until a “Denver Boot” is placed on the car or it is towed away.

Legal Parking Regulations in the UK

In the UK, the rules for illegal parking violations are slightly different. Here’s what you need to know:

No Permission to Park: A parking ticket does not give you permission to keep parking. If you continue to park illegally, you will receive additional tickets until the vehicle is impounded. Meter Parking: If you receive a parking ticket for overstaying at a meter, you can remain parked for the time specified on the ticket. Once that time expires, you will receive a penalty ticket and might face towing. Creative Storage Tactics: Some users suggest attaching a previous ticket to the car to avoid detection. However, the issuing authority will likely check the ticket and may cause havoc if the violation is ongoing.

Conclusion

Illegal parking can quickly escalate into a significant hassle, with potential fines, storage fees, and the possibility of your car being towed. It is crucial to abide by local parking regulations to avoid these complications. Always check the duration of your parking spot and move your car in a timely manner to avoid multiple tickets and fines.