Today I received a 'fine' of £100, reduced to £60 if I pay up within 14 days, after failing to pay and display in a supermarket car park a couple of weeks ago. I was there for 30 minutes. It happened because, since the last time I went there (about 3 weeks before I incurred the fine) the car park has changed from a free one to a P&D.
I went to look at the signs today, because I feel that, due to the change, there should have been huge signs alerting people to the fact that they now have to pay - I honestly saw nothing, or I would obviously have paid. Today I saw that approaching the car park from the direction I do, there is no sign visible from the road as it is at an angle in the entrance - so you can see it from the other way, but not my way unless you turn your head sharply to the right as you drive in - which would be unlikely. Inside there are two small signs, very easy to miss (I clearly did). The big sign in the entrance is clear if you are facing it, but if you only went in the supermarket and not the high street, you wouldn't walk past it. I did, but still didn't see it - I had the dc with me. When I appeal I may well say I only went in the supermarket.
The signage is one thing, but I have been on CAB website and it states that these companies are only supposed to cover their costs when they 'fine' you. The car park wasn't full, so I have cost them nothing. I was there for 30 minutes ffs - £100!!!
I will appeal, of course - I have no intention of paying either amount, but my point is, why is the onus on me to appeal? If they are not supposed to fine people, they shouldn't, and, as it is widely known that they do, they should be stopped. Some individuals would be unable to access the information they need to appeal, scared at the prospect of legal action etc, and pay up.
I find it disgraceful. AIBU?