Increase in penalties for parking in disabled bays is welcomed

The recent increase in fixed charge penalties for parking on disabled bays has been welcomed by Independent Cllr Frank Godfrey. ‘ The doubling of fines for parking in disabled bays will make able-bodied motorists think twice about using them when they are not entitled to.’

The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport has raised the fixed penalty charge for parking in a disabled parking bay without a valid disability parking permit from €80 to €150 with effect from 1 March 2018.

The penalty charge of €150 applies if paid within 28 days, increasing to €225 if paid in the following 28 days, with a summons issued if the charge is not paid within 56 days.

‘It’s about time that this sizeable fine was introduced as some motorists abuse these parking bays,’ said Cllr Godfrey. ‘In fact, I would go so far as to say, that if somebody is summonsed because of non-payment of this fixed charge, and has to appear in court, a penalty point should be applied to their driving licence too. After all, isn’t appropriate parking a part of careful driving?’

Cllr Godfrey pointed out that in some cases, painted markings on disabled bays may have worn away and may be difficult to identify. But, he added that in most cases, disabled parking bays are highlighted by signage on poles also.