Experts warn about 'misunderstood' blue badge rule that could cost you £1,000

THE MISUSE OF A BLUE BADGE COULD LEAVE WITH YOU WITH A HEFTY FINE OR MEAN YOU HAVE THE PASS TAKEN OFF YOU ALTOGETHER 12:27, 05 Jun 2025 Blue badge users are being warned about a

misunderstood parking rule that could see them face a £1,000 fine or lose their badge altogether. Misconceptions and misuse of the pass could have "serious consequences," experts

say. The Blue Badge Scheme was introduced in England in 1971 to help disabled people with parking. It gives those with mobility challenges "important parking benefits," but experts

say it's important to understand the limits of the pass when driving. The warning comes after Blue Badge misuse and theft have continued to rise by over 1000% since 2016. Car expert

Gabriel Hambleton from Gold Label Car Care says common misconceptions around Blue Badge usage could prove very expensive, Lancs Live reports. Gabriel said: "The Blue Badge scheme is

designed to assist those with significant mobility challenges by offering important parking benefits. Badge holders can park for free at council pay and display car parks and on single or

double yellow lines for up to three hours, as long as it’s safe and does not cause an obstruction. "While the scheme offers convenience, there are limits to where you can park, and

misunderstandings about this often lead to misuse. For example, Blue Badge holders cannot park in loading bays, spaces reserved for taxis or permit holders, or across pedestrian crossings.

“Parking on school 'keep clear' markings or areas with double white lines is also prohibited. It’s important to note these rules to avoid fines or obstruction. Article continues

below "One of the most common misconceptions is that a Blue Badge allows parking anywhere, which is not the case. Parking is restricted where it could endanger others or obstruct

access, such as near junctions, bus stops, or hospital entrances. Even areas without explicit signs, such as where emergency vehicles need access, are off-limits. Understanding these

restrictions ensures safer and fairer use of the scheme." _JOIN THE MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS __WHATSAPP__ GROUP _HERE He added: "The Blue Badge must always be displayed clearly on

the dashboard with the relevant details visible. Many people mistakenly think the badge can be used without the holder present, but it’s strictly for their use, either as a driver or

passenger. Organisational badges are only valid when transporting individuals who qualify under the scheme. "Misuse of a Blue Badge can have serious consequences. Lending the badge to

someone else, using it after it has expired, or failing to return a badge that is no longer needed can lead to its withdrawal and a fine of up to £1,000. This helps protect the integrity of

the scheme and ensures support goes to those who genuinely need it. "Blue Badges are valid for three years or until the end date of certain benefits, such as Personal Independence

Payments. As reminders are no longer sent, badge holders must monitor expiry dates and apply for renewal up to 12 weeks in advance. “If the badge is no longer needed, returning it to the

issuing authority prevents misuse and ensures compliance with the scheme." Article continues below WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A BLUE BADGE * Parking on single or double yellow lines for up to

3 hours (except where there are restrictions) * Free parking in pay-and-display bays and other spaces (depending on local rules) * Use of disabled parking bays * The scheme is valid

throughout the UK, but exact rules can vary slightly between England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland WHO IS ENTITLED TO ONE * People with severe mobility problems * Individuals who

are registered blind * People with certain hidden disabilities (e.g. autism, mental health conditions, chronic pain) * Parents or carers of children with mobility issues HOW TO APPLY *

Applications can be made through your local council or via the official UK government website * Medical or supporting evidence is typically required * A badge is valid for up to 3 years and

must be renewed