Misuse of a blue badge is a serious offence that can have a number of consequences for the offender. In this blog post, we will discuss the offence of misuse of a blue badge, the penalties that can be imposed, and the steps that can be taken to avoid committing this offence.
What is misuse of a blue badge?
A blue badge is a permit that allows disabled people to park in designated disabled parking bays. The badge is issued by the local authority, and it must be displayed in the windscreen of the vehicle being parked.
Misuse of a blue badge is defined as using a blue badge when the holder is not present, or using a blue badge that has been stolen or counterfeited.
What are the penalties for misuse of a blue badge?
The penalties for misuse of a blue badge can be severe. The offender may be fined up to £1,000, and they may also receive a criminal record.
How can I avoid committing the offence of misuse of a blue badge?
There are a number of steps that you can take to avoid committing the offence of misuse of a blue badge. These include:
- Only using a blue badge when you are the holder.
- Never lending your blue badge to someone else.
- Reporting any lost or stolen blue badges to the local authority.
- Making sure that your blue badge is always displayed in the windscreen of your vehicle.
By following these steps, you can help to ensure that you do not commit the offence of misuse of a blue badge.
If you are caught misusing a blue badge, you could face serious penalties. It is important to be aware of the risks and to take steps to avoid committing this offence.
If you are being investigated for, or charged with, misuse of a blue badge, we can help. We assist with cases throughout the whole of England and Wales. Call our expert team on 01623 397200.
