Parking signs are everywhere, but do you know how to read them? They are designed to inform drivers and pedestrians about the rules and regulations of parking in a certain area. They can also help you avoid fines, tickets, and towing. Here are some tips on how to read parking signs and what they mean.

Parking bays are marked spaces on the road or pavement where you can park your vehicle. They may be free, have time limits, require a permit or need to be paid for. SOme may also specify a particular type of vehicle only, such as motorcycle or electric cars.

You must park your vehicle entirely within the bay markings, otherwise you may receive a parking ticket. If your vehicle is too large to fit in the bay, you should try to find another spot where it does fit.

The signs for parking bays will indicate the restrictions that apply such as the days, times, duration and payment methods. If there are no days or times shown on the signs, the restrictions apply at all times. In some areas, you may be able to park for free for a short period, but then you must pay to park for longer. 

Red and yellow lines are used to show where stopping and waiting are prohibited or restricted. Red lines are currently used in London, but may appear in other locations in the future. Yellow lines are more common.

Even where waiting is prohibited, you may still set down and pick up passengers or load and unload goods, unless this is also forbidden by short yellow kerb marks of ‘blips’. You must do this safely and quickly, without causing an obstruction.

This means parking wholly or partly on the pavement or verge. This is usually not allowed because it can cause an obstruction and a danger to pedestrians, people with disabilities, children and other people.

It is unlawful to park on the footway anywhere. You may receive a fine or have your vehicle towed away if  you do so. 

These are yellow zigzag lines outside schools that indicate no stopping during the times and days specified on adjacent or nearby signs. They are meant to ensure the safety of children and other road users near schools.

You must not stop on these markings for any reason, even to drop off or pick up your children. You may receive a penalty charge notice or have your vehicle towed away if you do so.

Reading signs on the road can be confusing, but these parking signs help you park safely and legally. Go back to this article if you want to know how to read parking signs. By following these tips, you can avoid unnecessary hassle and enjoy your journey.