DRIVERS in the UK must adhere to the markings on the roads.
White zig-zag lines are just one of the many road markings that motorists need to be aware of - here's what we know.
What do white zig-zag lines mean?
White zig-zag lines painted on roads in the UK mark an entry and exit to a pedestrian crossing.
Parking and overtaking in these particular zones is strictly prohibited, as indicated by the road markings.
According to the Highway Code: "You MUST NOT park on a crossing or in the area covered by the zig-zag lines."
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This is because white zig-zag lines provide pedestrians, children and staff with a clear, unobstructed view of the road in front of them.
Drivers must follow the same rules when they see yellow zig-zag lines, which can be found outside schools, hospitals, police and fire stations.
Motorists are permitted to park on yellow zig-zags outside of the times shown on the sign.
White zig-zag road markings, however, are enforced 24 hours a day, every day.
Can I be fined for parking on white zig-zag lines?
Motorists risk a fine and penalty points by parking on white or yellow zig-zag lines.
Yellow zig-zags need an accompanying sign to be legally enforceable.
White lines, on the other hand, are enforced by local authorities and the police and do not require a sign to be enforceable.
How much is a parking fine?
White zig-zag lines are classed as dual enforcement restrictions, meaning both the police and the council can impose penalties for breaking the rules.
As parking on white zig-zag lines puts pedestrians at risk, police will almost always issue a Fixed Penalty Notice without exceptions.
A police fine also carries penalty points.
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PCN fines for parking on white zig-zag lines are usually in the region of £70, but are reduced by 50 per cent if paid within the times displayed on the ticket.
A police fixed penalty fine for the offence will be £100 plus three points on the driver’s licence.
Refusal to pay is likely to see the matter go to court, or a driver training course may offered.
It is possible to fight a penalty if you think you've been unfairly charged.
It is important to keep in mind, however, that the fine may increase if your appeal is unsuccessful.
Parking on zig-zag lines, especially white zig-zags, is difficult to dispute if a given penalty and few exceptions are given.
One example of an exception could be if you stopped because of an emergency such as helping a person who is injured.
According to Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis, the best to appeal within 14 days as this allows time to pay the fine at the reduced rate if your appeal is denied.
The next stage is to make a formal appeal - this is when your initial appeal is turned down.
When making a formal appeal, make sure to include a space for you to put the grounds for appeal.
The council has 56 days to respond to a formal appeal or you win by default.
