Everyone gets annoyed when they receive a parking ticket, especially when you have to fork out cash for a small violation such as an expired parking meter or parking too close to a fire hydrant. Tickets can easily be avoided and save you loads of frustration and money. Below are tips to avoid getting fines altogether.
1. Know Your Signs
Make sure you know and understand the difference between the different parking signs, such as the no standing, no stopping, and no parking signs and stick to the regulations. Avoid parking on or part of a crosswalk or designated bike lane. If you park and notice no parking signs or can’t read the sign, take photos of the parking spot and the surroundings or the unreadable sign as evidence. You are going to need it to lodge a dispute if you receive a fine.
2. Heed the Most Restrictive Sign
Sometimes parking signs can be a bit confusing, especially when there is more than one close together. If there are a few parking signs around, all with different information, heed the most restrictive sign. That way, you know you are covered and won’t get fined.
3. Display Your Meter Receipt
Just to make sure that everyone can see that you paid for your parking spot, stick the receipt face-up on your dashboard on the inside of your car. That way, there will be no confusion. If the meter isn’t working, it’s not your lucky day. Purchase parking from a working meter closest to your parking bay to avoid a fine. It’s easier and will cost you far less than paying a fine.
4. Check the Meter Time Limit
Always check the meter time limit, memorize it, and ensure that you get back to your car before the time runs out. Even if you are a minute late, it could lead to a fine that could easily have been avoided.
5. Avoid Fire Hydrants
Avoid a fire hydrant like the plague. If you see one, keep moving. Unless you can judge distance well, you will get a ticket if you park even a few inches closer than 15 feet away from a fire hydrant.
6. Stay Up to Date
Always ensure that your registration, license, and insurance are up to date to avoid tickets.
Ticket Costs and Disputes
The cost of tickets varies based on the type of parking violation and how many times you’ve committed the same offense. If you disagree with the fine, you can always lodge a dispute. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, you can appeal.
If you receive a fine and notice inaccurate or missing information, you can also dispute it. The ticket will be reviewed and dismissed if the information is faulty. If you’ve lost your fine, the Traffic Bureau can provide you with a copy and the relevant information, such as court dates if applicable.
The easiest way to avoid tickets is by understanding the different parking signs and familiarizing yourself with the parking regulations. Contact Flood Mazda today. Our friendly and professional team of experts is here to assist you with all your vehicle requirements.
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