DRIVERS FACE FINES FOR OVERSIZED VEHICLES: Are UK cars now too big for parking spaces?
Drivers with larger vehicles are being warned they could face fines if their cars do not fit properly within parking bays.
Motoring experts at LeaseLoco.com advise those with newer, wider models to be cautious when choosing a parking space. As cars have grown in size over the years, some models may now struggle to fit within standard bay dimensions, leading to potential penalties.
The British Parking Association states that on-street parking bays must be at least 180cm wide, yet cars can legally be as wide as 250cm. The average vehicle already exceeds 180cm, and with cars growing by about 1cm every two years, the gap is only widening.
Larger models such as the BMW X5 and Audi Q7 both measure 221cm wide, including mirrors, while a Vauxhall Insignia spans 208cm and a Toyota Camry 183cm. As vehicles continue to increase in width, parking options are becoming more limited.
Drivers are advised to check their car’s dimensions before using a parking bay. Parking over the lines can result in fines, with many local councils issuing penalties of £40, rising to £80 if not paid within 14 days.
John Wilmot, CEO of car leasing company LeaseLoco.com, said: “Cars have been getting increasingly larger over the years, and while some drivers prefer them, they may now be too big for Britain’s roads and parking spaces.
“The minimum width for an on-street parking bay is 180cm, yet many modern cars already exceed this, making parking more difficult.
“Some drivers may think they can slightly overlap the lines for a quick stop, but in some areas, this can result in fines of up to £80.
“Government regulations allow cars to be up to 250cm wide, yet most parking bays remain significantly smaller, creating a clear mismatch.
“This disparity is unfair to drivers who risk fines simply because their vehicles don’t fit within standard bays.
“If this trend continues, parking will become even more challenging, leaving more motorists struggling to avoid penalties.”
