Parking mistake could cost drivers £2,500 and points on their licence

Experts have issued a stark caution to drivers, highlighting a common parking mistake that could leave them with hefty fines and jeopardize the safety of their car. Select Car Leasing has stressed that vehicles should never be left unattended without the handbrake being applied, even if they're parked in gear.

Managing director Graham Conway implored motorists to engage the parking brake whenever leaving their vehicle. His advice was uncompromising: "The law is clear - you must use your vehicle's parking brake each and every time you leave it unattended."

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He added a stern warning stating, "Simply leaving it in gear - even if you're on a completely flat road - to prevent movement simply isn't enough, and you're liable for a major fine and points on your licence."

Under the rules set out by the Highway Code, it is mandated that drivers must shut off the engine and put the handbrake on before exiting an unattended vehicle, reports the Express.

Although some may regard it as common sense, adhering to this guideline can avoid the potential for a vehicle to roll away, potentially colliding with other cars or endangering people nearby.

Offences stemming from a disengaged handbrake leading to an accident can incur fines as steep as £2,500 and add penalty points to a driver's record, which can subsequently drive up insurance costs.

Conway recognised that though opting for the gearbox rather than the handbrake could reduce wear on certain parts, it's still not worth the gamble of facing the fine.

He explained: "Some drivers might argue that leaving their car in gear prevents unnecessary wear and tear on the handbrake, meaning lower maintenance costs further down the line.

"But that view ignores crucial safety implications and is also a false economy when you consider how steep the fines are."