Parking Rights: What to Do If Someone Blocks Your Driveway

It can be incredibly frustrating when someone parks over your driveway, blocking your access. Knowing your rights can help you handle these situations more effectively. In this article, we will explain your legal rights according to the Highway Code and provide practical steps you can take if someone is obstructing your driveway.

Highway Code: The Basics

The Highway Code is a set of guidelines and rules for road users in the UK. While the Code itself is not legislation, many of its rules are backed by laws, and failing to adhere to them can result in penalties. Specific rules deal with parking, including the blocking of driveways.

Rule 243: No Parking Across Driveways

According to Rule 243 of the Highway Code:

"Do not stop or park in front of an entrance to a property."

This means that it is not just a polite request but an expectation that drivers do not block access to driveways. Doing so can constitute an obstruction and can have legal consequences.

Legal Implications

If someone parks over your driveway and blocks you in or out, they may be committing an offense under certain circumstances:

• Obstruction: Blocking a driveway can be considered an obstruction of the highway, which is an offense.
• Local By-Laws: Specific local councils may have additional regulations against blocking driveways, which can also result in fines or penalties.

What Steps Can You Take?

Here are the steps you can take if someone blocks your driveway:

Contact the Driver

If possible, speak to the driver and ask them to move their vehicle. They may not even realise they are causing an issue.

Speak to Your Neighbours

If the problem persists and you know the driver lives nearby, discussing the issue with them calmly may resolve the situation.

Contact the Authorities

If the vehicle remains or the blockage is causing significant inconvenience, you can contact your local council or the police:

• Local Council: Some councils have dedicated teams to handle parking issues, including driveway obstructions.
• Police: If you are blocked in and need to get out urgently, the police may intervene under specific circumstances.

Consider Legal Action

As a last resort, you may consider legal action, particularly if the blocking is persistent and severe. However, this should be done after exhausting other options.

Conclusion

Dealing with a blocked driveway can be a stressful experience, but knowing your rights and the appropriate steps to take can help you manage the situation calmly and effectively. Remember, the Highway Code provides clear guidance that parking across driveways is not acceptable, and there are several ways to address the issue, from speaking to the driver to seeking assistance from authorities.