Kathrine FrichThe judge strongly advises motorists to take photos of the scene.
The judge strongly advises motorists to take photos of the scene.
Retired Judge Reveals Parking Ticket Defence
A former judge has shared a surprising strategy for fighting private parking fines. Stephen Gold says motorists can sometimes win appeals by simply stating:
“I knew nothing.”
It’s a tactic that challenges whether the driver was properly informed of the car park’s conditions.
The Key to the Defence Lies in Parking Sign Visibility
According to Gold, the success of this argument depends on whether the car park operator can prove the rules were clearly displayed.
If signs were missing, hidden, or poorly placed, the motorist might not be held accountable for breaking the rules.
Operators Must Prove You Agreed to Their Terms
The law requires that car park operators show that a driver agreed to the conditions of parking.
This includes proving that the signage was visible enough for a reasonable person to have seen and understood the terms before leaving their vehicle.
Some Drivers May Never See the Signs at All
Gold points out that in many cases, signs may not be placed along the route a driver takes in or out of the car park.
If you didn’t see a notice because it was placed too high, hidden, or absent altogether, that could be grounds to challenge the fine.
Visual Evidence Can Make or Break Your Case
The judge strongly advises motorists to take photos of the scene.
If signage was not clear or visible, photographic evidence is the most effective way to prove that. Without that proof, appeals are harder to win.
Time Limits Still Apply for Appeals
Motorists generally have 28 days to appeal a parking ticket, though in exceptional circumstances that window can be extended.
However, those who appeal may lose the right to pay the reduced fine typically offered within the first 14 days.
Even If You Appeal, You Could Still Be Taken to Court
Drivers should be aware that private parking firms can take legal action if a fine is unpaid.
But if the case goes to court, the burden is on the company to show that proper warning signs were in place and clearly visible at the time.
