Blue Badge holders face £1,000 fine over little-known Highway Code parking rule

Blue Badge holders have been warned over £1,000 fines when parking - as drivers risks breaking Highway Code rules. Drivers could be slapped with a £1,000 fine if someone misuses the badge, as well as the badge being confiscated.

Rule 239 of the Highway Code reminds Blue Badge holders: "Use off-street parking areas, or bays marked out with white lines on the road as parking places, wherever possible. If you have to stop on the roadside do not park facing against the traffic flow.

"Stop as close as you can to the side. Do not stop too close to a vehicle displaying a Blue Badge: remember, the occupant may need more room to get in or out." It adds: "Where you are able to do so, you should open the door using your hand on the opposite side to the door you are opening; for example, use your left hand to open a door on your right-hand side. This will make you turn your head to look over your shoulder. You are then more likely to avoid causing injury to cyclists or motorcyclists passing you on the road, or to people on the pavement.

READ MORE UK set to be hammered by 5cm of snow with two parts of England 'bearing brunt'

"It is safer for your passengers (especially children) to get out of the vehicle on the side next to the kerb. Put all valuables out of sight and make sure your vehicle is secure. Lock your vehicle." Rule 241 adds: "You MUST NOT park in parking spaces reserved for specific users, such as Blue Badge holders, residents or motorcycles, unless entitled to do so."

A Blue Badge should only be displayed if the Badge holder is travelling in the vehicle as a driver or passenger, or for a driver to park at the place where the Badge holder is being picked up or dropped off. Do not use the Badge to allow non-disabled people to take advantage of the benefits while you sit in the car. Although it is not illegal for a Badge holder, or a non-disabled person waiting for the Badge holder to return, to remain in the vehicle while the Blue Badge is displayed, consideration should be given to using a car park whenever possible.