Moved here with the hope for more advice

[baaboo]

Earlier in the year I had a call back to work (I work in an industry where I am dealing with who could be considered as a vulnerable type of client)
It was dark, pouring down with rain. I parked my car in the space in the public car park that we have a permit for and ran in to get the permit. The clients were already at the door waiting. I let them in and they were my priority.

I got a parking fine for not displaying the permit.

I originally appealed with copies of my name on the permits stating the industry I am in and why I felt I couldn't just run out and display the permit.
I was also pregnant with a complicated pregnancy and didn't want to park my car elsewhere and walk. I provided a copy of a letter from the hospital stating stress was causing problems and I needed to take it easy.

The car park has about 30 spaces and there was about 25 free spaces.

I have ignored the letters as I am so upset by the lack of care and understanding. But now have received a letter from a debt collection company stating if I don't pay they will take me to a small claims court. I have 14 days to pay.

I am on maternity pay so can't afford it anyway. I have no idea what to do. Can anyone help?

[cdtaylornats]

Pay up and move on.

The company that runs the parking has no obligation to be kind.

Alternatively pay up and start a campaign against them.

Your clients were your priority, monetising the car parking space was theirs. Would you be okay with your employers not paying you because they had other priorities?

[baaboo]

I didn't NOT pay for anything. I just didn't display my permit in an empty car park. The space is only for our company so no one else could have parked there anyway.

[prh47bridge]

Unfortunately by ignoring the letters you have undermined your position. It is now too late to appeal. You could try a late appeal but it is unlikely to be accepted as you don't really have valid reasons for the delay. Realistically you will have to pay.

I understand that you didn't fail to pay. That doesn't matter. Parking companies can levy a fine if you overstay in a free car park even if the car park is completely empty apart from your car. They can certainly fine you for failing to display your permit.

[baaboo]

I didn't ignore every letter. Just one. I appealed initially. I have contacted the collections company and explained what happened and they have asked me to send all the appeal details to them.

[BusStopBetty]

There are some very knowledgeable people on money saving expert forums. I would try there. Good luck.