Blue Badge warning as breaking rules could lead to £1,000 fine

Blue Badge holders could be at risk of facing a fine as high as £1,000 for breaking easy-to-forget rules. And it gets worse - you could be fined even more for misusing your Blue Badge if you committed any other traffic offences at the same time.

The 'rights and responsibilities' of a the Blue Badge scheme are laid out by the government. Drivers should note that there are small varieties in rules across different parts of the UK.

Important rules include using the permit as a driver or passenger, parking restrictions, rules about remaining in the car in a disabled parking space and whether others can use the badge. There are distinct rules for off-street car parks such as hospitals and supermarkets - signage in these areas should be observed.

The Blue Badge allows a vehicle to park in many places where other motorists cannot, including on-street parking meter spaces, on-street pay-and-display spaces, disabled person's parking spaces and over single or double yellow lines, reports the Daily Record. Here are some essential tips for using a Blue Badge correctly and six parking rules to follow, whether you're a driver or passenger.

Full details about using a Blue Badge correctly can be found on GOV.UK.

• If you are not getting out of the vehicle, you should not use your Blue Badge to get a parking space.
• You must follow the rules when using your Blue Badge - if you don't you are committing a crime.
• If you are a passenger, someone else can use your Blue Badge to drop you off or pick you up.
• If your badge gets damaged you must apply for a new one.
• You must display your Blue Badge the right way up so the number can be seen clearly and your photo is face down.
• If you are a passenger and the driver is remaining in the car, the badge must be removed from the vehicle and the driver should park in a non-disabled parking space.
• You must not let other people use your badge.
• You can only use your Blue Badge as a driver or passenger.
• You should check for time restrictions on nearby signs or with the local authorities and use a parking clock.
• You must apply for a new badge before your old badge runs out.
• If you are not getting out of the vehicle, you should not use your Blue Badge to get a parking space.
• No-one else should use your badge if you are not in the vehicle with them.
• Keep your badge safe. If it is lost or stolen, you must tell the police and the local council.
• Never park where it would endanger, inconvenience or obstruct pedestrians or other road users.
• You can park on single or double yellow lines, unless there are loading restrictions in place.
• Check signs to make sure that Blue Badge holders are allowed to park there.

Who might be eligible for a Blue Badge?

If you're living with a physical disability or health condition that impacts your ability to walk safely, or if you have a hidden illness such as dementia, autism or Parkinson's, you might be eligible for a Blue Badge. This would allow you to park closer to your destinations.

These include having a substantial disability lasting at least 12 months that prevents you from walking or makes it very difficult, regularly driving but being unable to use parking meters due to severe disability in both arms, or caring for a child under three who needs medical treatment near a vehicle or uses bulky medical equipment.

To apply, you'll need to submit an online application to your local council, along with a recent digital photo showing your head and shoulders.

You'll also need to provide a photograph or scan of your proof of identity (like a birth certificate, passport or driving licence), proof of address (for example, a Council Tax bill or government letter - alternatively, you can opt for your local council to verify the Electoral Register) and proof of benefits if you receive any. You'll also need to know your National Insurance number and the details of your current Blue Badge if you're reapplying.

After you've applied, your local council will handle your application and inform you of their decision. You can start the application process through GOV.UK here.