No matter where you live, you can get a parking ticket at any time of the day or night. You might park in a lot that restricts access after a certain time of the day and come back after the limit passes, or you might park in front of a fire hydrant that you didn’t see. Even parking too close to a driveway or an ally can lead to a parking ticket in some areas. Whether dealing with a parking enforcement company such as UKPC, you should know what to do when you get a ticket.
Verify the Ticket is True
Never assume that the little envelope you see on your car’s windshield is a parking ticket that you must pay right away. If you park on a college or university campus, you may get a ticket for not having a parking pass or for staying too long in a visitor lot. Many of these campuses have their own security departments that hand out tickets. Not paying the ticket usually won’t hurt your driving record. Some lots also have private security firms that can issue citations but not force you to pay the ticket.
Document Your Case
If you verify that the ticket is true and that you must pay it, you should document your case. Use your cell phone to take photos of your vehicle as it sits and with the ticket on display. This can help you argue that you didn’t park too close to a hydrant or that there was still time left in the parking meter. It’s often helpful to gather statements from any witnesses too. Ask anyone who was with you when you received the ticket to give you a statement or come to court with you.
Go to Court
When you get a parking ticket, you have two choices. You can pay the ticket through the mail, or you can go to court and fight the ticket. Many jurisdictions will put the total amount due and the due date right on the ticket. Some will reduce the amount due if you pay it prior to the due date. If you go to court, you need to present evidence that shows you did not deserve the ticket or that you are not responsible for it. Knowing what to do when you get a ticket can help you avoid points on your license.
