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Parents caught up in the school rush as children nationwide return to classes have been issued a clear warning. While it can prove challenging for parents to secure a parking spot when dropping off or collecting their children from school, it remains crucial they stay mindful of permitted parking areas.

Road markings and stringent traffic regulations help determine where vehicles may and may not park. Typically, these measures exist to safeguard both pedestrians and fellow motorists.

Disregarding these regulations could ultimately result in parents facing an otherwise avoidable penalty. Taking to X, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) said: "As tricky as parking may be during the school run, you still need to follow the rules. Unless forced to do so by stationary traffic, do not stop or park: near a school entrance, on a bend, in front of a property 's entrance."

When school commences and concludes, parents ought to anticipate congested roads and prepare accordingly. This occurs because the surge in traffic can heighten risks for both youngsters and parents alike.

Guidance from the Met Police emphasises that parking restrictions are routinely implemented outside schools to help maintain children's safety.

Generally, the vicinity outside a school will feature yellow zigzag markings alongside the words ''School Keep Clear'. Motorists should be aware that they are never allowed to park on zigzag lines when time restrictions are in place, usually indicated by a nearby sign.

However, if there is no sign next to the markings, then drivers should assume that they are never allowed to wait or park there.

Rule 191 of the Highway Code states: "You MUST NOT park on a crossing or in the area covered by the zig-zag lines. You MUST NOT overtake the moving vehicle nearest the crossing or the vehicle nearest the crossing which has stopped to give way to pedestrians."

If you are caught breaking this rule, your local council can issue a penalty charge notice. The fine will vary depending on your location, but it's generally halved if paid within 14 days.

Parking on a bend is particularly dangerous as it can obstruct the visibility of other road users. In extreme cases, this could lead to a collision with another vehicle or pedestrian.

It is advised to stop or park in an area that does not obstruct the road or restrict other road users' visibility.

While it is generally legal to park in front of someone's property, you could still find yourself in trouble. Drivers are also advised not to park on a dropped kerb, which is typically lowered to assist wheelchair users and powered mobility vehicles.

In certain instances, you could be slapped with a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) from the local council for parking on someone else's property if your vehicle is causing an obstruction, particularly if you're blocking another person's driveway, especially if it has a dropped kerb.