Your legal rights if someone's vehicle is blocking access to your street

If you live in an area with limited parking , it's not uncommon to see drivers leaving cars in awkward spots. While motorists don't usually have bad intentions, they could pose a hazard if their parking blocks access to other vehicles, including waste collection lorries, delivery vans, or emergency service vehicles. In many cases, they could also be risking legal trouble. Unfortunately, irresponsible parking is often raised as a complaint on social media forums. For instance, this could involve bad parking that blocks bin lorries from collecting waste from the entire street. Not only does this parking cause a nuisance for residents, but it could also be putting someone's life at risk. If irresponsible parking prevents large vehicles from accessing roads, it could prevent vital services, such as emergency vehicles, from reaching people when they need help most. What's more, when an ambulance or fire engine is required to attend a property, every second counts. So drivers should always take care to ensure they are not blocking access when parking. The Highway Code makes clear that drivers should not leave their vehicle in a dangerous position or in a place that causes an unnecessary obstruction. Rule 242 says: "You must not leave your vehicle or trailer in a dangerous position or where it causes any unnecessary obstruction of the road." If a vehicle is parked dangerously or obstructs an emergency vehicle, the police have the power to act. However, members of the public should not move the car as they don't have the legal authority to move or tow someone else's vehicle on a public road. Generally, members of the public can report illegal parking using their local force's online reporting system. For instance, the Metropolitan Police website states: "If the vehicle is parked: on zig-zag lines dangerously in a way that would prevent emergency vehicles from accessing " You can report these to us online ." British Transport Police reiterates that it is illegal to park in a way that would prevent emergency vehicles from gaining access. In an emergency, call 999. In other instances, if a car is parked over a dropped kerb, on a pedestrian crossing, or near a school entrance, it should be reported to your local council. Find your local council by searching by postcode on Gov.uk.