Kent Police have this morning reported that they have responded to a call regarding lorries parked illegally on the hard shoulder on the M2. When they arrived at junction 7, they found nine lorries parked on the London bound hard shoulder.
When they questioned all nine drivers, they were found to be on their rest periods. They have issued on the spot fines to all nine drivers.
It is unknown at this time if the lorries are registered in the UK or abroad. Sadly, this is not the first time this issue has blighted the roads around Canterbury.
we need a better system to ensure fines are paid
In May 2019, there was a problem with foreign vehicles parking illegally on the Wincheap Industrial Estate. Although on the spot fines were issued, 490 of the punishments – totalling £34,300 – remain outstanding.
Although it is reassuring that the police are issuing fines, it is about time that the law was changed. Foreign drivers should not be given the opportunity to avoid payment and leave the country. The fines need to be paid by the roadside, either in cash or via a credit/debit card.
There has to be a better way to ensure that the fine is paid before the vehicle leaves our sures. Another suggestion is that they should confiscate the drivers passport until any outstanding fines have been paid. The UK needs t oget tough with these professional drivers who think that they can beat the current system.
