Motorists warned over Highway Code regulations when it comes to parking on private property

New regulations were introduced in the Highway Code in 2022, with a focus on the 'hierarchy of road users' and placing additional responsibility on larger vehicles for road safety

Few things are as irritating as returning home from work to discover a car blocking your driveway, preventing you from parking. Whether the vehicle is owned by an unknown person or a neighbour, the immediate desire is to move it so you can access your own space.

In 2022, driving guidelines were updated, introducing key changes and highlighting a "hierarchy of road users" that prioritises pedestrians and imposes more responsibility on larger vehicles for safety. According to Somerset Live, the Highway Code's rules 239 to 252 cover parking, with Rule 243 specifically advising drivers not to stop or park "in front of an entrance to a property".

Despite this guidance, there's no criminal law to punish those who park on another's property. Police suggest if a neighbour's car is causing obstruction, a polite request to move it should be made.

If the owner cannot be found, leaving a note on the windscreen is recommended. Legally, parking on someone else's property is considered trespassing, a civil offence, meaning police intervention is limited as it's not a criminal issue and occurs on private land.

The only exception is if the car is abandoned - in that case, your local council may be able to help with its removal. Moreover, if a car is parked on a public road and obstructing a driveway, the driver is committing a parking violation, reports the Daily Record.

Local authorities can intervene in such situations and issue a fine. For those who are new to driving, one instructor has shared common road signs which often lead Brits to fail their test - and they're very easy to confuse.