Free Traffic Legal Advice

Hi all,

I recently received a Conditional Offer of Fixed Penalty for £30 for an alleged offence of “unnecessary obstruction” in Liverpool, and I intend to contest it as I don’t believe I’m in the wrong.

Some context:

I’ve parked in this spot regularly since moving to my flat last year, as my apartment doesn’t come with a dedicated car space. Other cars park there all the time, and I haven’t seen any other notices issued before or after.

On the day in question, my car was parked where the red cross is on this satellite image: https://ibb.co/9kLGPvnB. Traffic was able to pass freely in both directions.

There are no single or double yellow lines.

I emailed the issuing authority asking for clarification. They replied that the officer “wishes to proceed,” citing: “parking in a live lane of a carriageway thus obstructing traffic flow” and “within 10m of a junction.” They offered two options: pay £30 now or take it to court.

I’ve measured the distances on Google Maps — both sides to the nearest junction are over 20 metres, so the “within 10m” claim seems incorrect.

I feel, on principle, that I wasn’t in the wrong, so I’m keen to contest the notice through the magistrates’ court if necessary. However, I’m open to any other recommendations or perspectives from those with experience handling similar cases.

I’ve had a clean driving record since 2012 and would appreciate any guidance on how best to contest this notice, including potential procedural points I could raise or evidence I should gather before taking further action.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

...and would appreciate any guidance on how best to contest this notice, including potential procedural points I could raise or evidence I should gather before taking further action.

You cannot contest the notice. You either accept the penalty offered or you allow the matter to proceed to prosecution in court. There is no other action open to you at this stage.

I must say that looking at GSV, it seems lots of drivers park in the same place.

My day (that would be spent in court) is worth far more than £30, but you do you.

Thanks. I think this is a helpful perspective to consider. I've paid the fee just for peace of mind that I don't need to think about this anymore. Certainly feel unjust though.. 

Having looked at streetview the only thing I could think of is that it is the approach to traffic lights, but I have always thought, and could be wrong, that it is only zig zags that would enforce an approach to lights, and common sense would kick in that you wouldn't park near a crossing/lights, but the distance here would almost certainly not be relevant here.

I'd say the officer has got it wrong, although on 2 different years on streetview there are suspension notices on the fence, but as above going to court to prove your point could end up becoming quite costly if the court find against you, and then end up with a larger fine and costs.
It may be one to speak with the local councillor about otherwise take the £30 on the chin.

I had photos of the day I received the parking notice and there wasn't a parking suspension notice nearby. When I enquired, the police also didn't quote this as a reason for the notice. I've just made the payment though because I think even though I'm more likely in the right, it's not worth the stress and uncertainty when this is taken to court. It's a good idea to write to the local councillor though and that may give me some closure! Thanks for the idea.