AA Research Reveals Drivers Feel Forced Into Rule-Bending by Limited Legal Parking

New research from The AA highlights growing frustration among drivers over the lack of legal parking spaces — an issue many say leads them to stop where they shouldn’t. In 2024, more than 1.6 million Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) were issued for parking on single or double yellow lines. Yet despite high enforcement levels, 37% of drivers admit they have parked on double yellow lines at least once, according to an AA survey of nearly 15,000 motorists.

High Enforcement, High Frustration

Ten councils accounted for more than 581,000 of the PCNs issued — generating over £40 million in fines at the standard £70 charge. However, only 13% of drivers who parked on double yellow lines said they were actually fined, suggesting that rule-breaking is widespread and not always detected.

Why Drivers Break the Rules

The survey highlights a range of reasons why motorists choose to stop illegally:

• Loading or unloading goods (43%)
• Making a quick stop (31%)
• Accompanying someone with a Blue Badge (27%)
• No legal parking available (18%)
• Emergency situations (13%)

Double yellow lines mean no parking or waiting at any time, though certain exemptions apply — such as limited Blue Badge parking, permitted loading where indicated, and breakdown situations.

Calls for Better Infrastructure

When asked what would help reduce illegal parking, more than half of respondents (52%) said greater availability of legal parking would prevent rule-bending. Other deterrents included:

• More visible enforcement (41%)
• Higher fines (25%)
• Clearer signage (18%)
• Enhanced public awareness (16%)

Differences Across Ages and Regions

Demographic trends also emerged:

• Younger drivers (18–34) were less likely to park on double yellow lines (29%) than older drivers aged 65+ (38%).
• Men (40%) were more likely than women (28%) to admit doing so.
• Scotland and Wales recorded the highest levels of occasional breaches.
• London and the South East showed the strongest demand for increased legal parking spaces.

AA Calls for Local Authority Action

In response to the findings, the AA is encouraging councils to expand legal parking provision, improve signage clarity, review existing restrictions and focus enforcement where it will be most effective.

At Volkswagen, we continue to promote safe, responsible driving and support measures that help make everyday journeys easier, safer and less stressful for all road users.