Known about it for donkeys years ! Back in the day, there was a light fitting specially made for this with a clear and red lens. It had a metal bracket that fitted over the drivers window so you were able to close the window and you connected it to the cigarette lighter (if fitted) or a spare battery.
I remember my dad fitting them when parked overnight outside the house on the street - thought it was because of the smog/fog. Copper would knock on the door but no fines needed !!
you are right about the dangers of lay-bys because i indicated to pull into a roadside lay-by and the guy behind me followed me in at full speed while i was slowing down. What he was thinking i do not know. I floored the throttle and just got out of his way in time to avoid a rear end collision.
Wow, big grey area that one Jim! The rule about lights on at night for vehicles you mentioned applies to them being parked roadside anywhere not just laybys and in my 40+ years of driving I have never heard of anyone being fined for parking without lights on at night, unless facing opposite direction to oncoming traffic and that's the only one I know of in all those years! And the "No overnight parking or camping" sign are not legally enforceable as they are not imposed by the road traffic act and not the concern of the police, they are erected by parish and district councils and as such only enforceable by them! If your vehicle is legal then there is no reason you cannot park in said designated parking areas, as ultimately this forms part of the highway itself! Also "overnight parking and camping" is open to interpretation as is "sleeping", all terms that are not provable nor definitive! Ultimately it all depends how "compliant or submissive" you wish to be with the police when they try to intimidate, pry or simply hassle people! Please don't forget the police do as they are tol and do not study the "laws" they uphold which are usually "acts of parliament or statutes" which only carry the "force of law with the consent of the governed!" I don't make the rules, I just try to comprehend them and not be abused by them! I rest my case M'Lud! Haha! ✌
Wow! That's a lot to take in. I like the 'non-enforceable' bit in there regarding signs and what you said about them only being in enforceable by the Parish council which makes perfect sense. I'll try to remember this should I need to use that card sometime. The 'fine/ticket' I mentioned is a real thing, but perhaps it isn't applied that often, but anyhow I'm only putting it out there for awareness. Thanks for your input. Best wishes, Jim
@AmsterVAN66 Sorry if lot to comprehend but just trying to clarify things as it is a bit of a minefield, it's just about knowing how "legalise" is used against us on a daily basis! Thanks for bringing attention to it and giving a space for us all to discuss and try to make sense of it, you posting here gives us a platform for that! 👍✌
@AmsterVAN66 Just another point, the only time those parking/camping signs would be enforceable by the police is if a TRO (Traffic Restriction Order) had been issued which covered said layby or parking space and this would have to be posted at the location with all relevant restrictions imposed along with its traceable reference number included on the document, then the police can uphold stated restrictions!
On many vehicles, if you leave the indicator stalk not in the centre position, the side light front and back will remain on. This means you are using half the electrical power from your battery. Back in the sixties even in a 30 mph area vehicles had to have a parking light, these could be purchased from auto factors. They clipped onto your side window and plugged into the lighter socket.
Thanks I didn't know that. I prefer the set back with a bit of gress/trees etc. But I have actually in desperation parked on the ones your talking about. Thanks again.
Why don't you rig up a low wattage parking light then you would be ok and you could park in all those places, it sounds like it would be worth it in your case.
Hi Edward, yes I think this would be sensible, but in my case I really don't like parking overnight in those kind of lay-bys. But, for the odd occasion, a low wattage light would be a good measure to take. Regards, Jim
Thanks for that....I didn't know that but always use common sense... however last year I was parked up in December on a similar to layby with trees between it and the road between Achnasheen and Kinlochewe....never got a fine or ticking off but a smashed rear barn door window
Hi Jim, Some good information there... I've been a lorry driver for 43yrs, now retired. I never knew that law but would never & have never parked overnight in a lay-by with no protection from the carriageway, tbh I expect I could count one hand the amount of times I've parked in any type of lay-by in my whole career.. Lay-by's weren't for me...
Hi Steve, yes those lay-bys with no protection just aren't a good option anyway. I suppose it depends on your driving job as to where and when you might need to park overnight. Enjoy your retirement because after 43 years you deserve it. Best wishes, Jim
Rule 249 of the Highway Code says All vehicles MUST display parking lights when parked on a road or a lay-by on a road with a speed limit greater than 30 mph (48 km/h). I take that as meaning not just anything over 2500kgs. I live near a 40 mph road and the Police have, many years ago, ticketed cars for being parked without lights.
Great point, my channel is about van life, but I believe you're right. Seems a bit daft to then have rule "250" that specifically says vehicles exceeding 2,500kg... Thank you! Jim
@ I’ve just re read rule 250 a few times and it seems pedantic. Rule 250 Cars, goods vehicles not exceeding 2500 kg laden weight, invalid carriages, motorcycles and pedal cycles may be parked without lights on a road (or lay-by) with a speed limit of 30 mph (48 km/h) or less if they are: at least 10 metres (32 feet) away from any junction, close to the kerb and facing in the direction of the traffic flow in a recognised parking place or lay-by. Other vehicles and trailers, and all vehicles with projecting loads, MUST NOT be left on a road at night without lights. So, my Van that has a weight of 2700kgs can’t be left on the street without lights…..I’m either wrong or not understanding the rules. Regarding the 40mph and above, it’s definitely a rule for all vehicles abut the police never seem to enforce near me now. I remember back in the 80’s they did enforce it but allowed residents to put a rear Light off a Bicycle on the rear parcel shelf which ran on batteries rather than them flattening the cars starter battery. Still gave the red glow, but prevented flat car batteries.
Yes, I just err on the side of caution, i.e. no chance of breaking the law - ideally anyway. And we all need to do this for own particular circumstances. Regards, Jim
You're right - rule 249 and 250 of the Highway Code. My channel is for van life as you can see. Actually why rule 250 points out the weight exceeding 2,500kg then is a bit confusing. Best wishes, Jim
You should illuminate your PARK lights fitted to all vehicles. Either on the offside or nearside. All vehicles have this setting on their light stalk or electronic lighting settings. Thats what they are intended for. If your vehicle is using the PARK light, then the owner/user is NOT guilty of this offence. Vehicle batteries are fitted with a specific low power loom to facilitate the low power draw during the hours of darkness. You must also refer to the issued hours which are available online for official LUT or Lighting Up Times. They change everyday. If you are given a ticket outside of these times, you are well within your rights to challenge the issued TOR. This is why the offence under the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations Act 1989 applies. It is NOT where you are parked, it is due to the fact that there is insufficient or adequate warning lighting to other road users. Hope this helps (And yes, I am a former traffic cop)!
"You should illuminate your PARK lights fitted to all vehicles. Either on the offside or nearside. All vehicles have this setting on their light stalk or electronic lighting settings." Oh no they don't.
This law derives from EU law. Hence German cars have a red parking light on the side the indicator is depressed on, when engine is off. This satisfies the regulation.
You can fit 12 v 1 watt led bulbs which will just use 5 watt every hour , you can also make a dual circuit where you charge a small 12 v battery when running engine they can be found at Screwfix for 25 pound and than just use that circuit at night .
Just leave your parling lights on at night. They are designed to be able to be left on over night without draining your battery. For example a battery rated at 80 amp-hours should be able to handle 32 hours of continuous sidelight use.
I'd never park overnight in a spot like that anyway tbh, it was bad enough taking a 45m break in the truck let alone chancing it for a whole night in a soft shell camper, the things you see are stupendous at night !!
I can't say I've parked in a layby next to the road overnight but if I did I think I would feel unsafe if I didn't have any lights on, I would always feel that someone is going to rear end me. I think I would put some lights on anyway. At least then you are covered, best to try and keep legal and not attract any unwanted attention.
Yes your right. And I park in my live in my motor home in laybys a lot. Have fitted led parking lights independent of van main lights, these run off the auxiliary batteries and draw about 1watt each, Can switch on rear only or all four (Front and rear) as well as for saftey it helps with security as doesn't make it look like you parked there for the night. As there on the auxiliary circuit with the diesel night heater it wont drain the starting battery. Never had a problem and can easily run both parking lights, night heater, etc for 10 hours at a time on two 100amp leasure batterys.
i haven't researched properly but i believe 1W may be too bright for some. Their actual brightness is reasonably unrelated to Watts, the figure you need is Lumens & a 5W filament lamp is likely to produce 40 Lumens &anything between 40 Lumens & 125 Lumens for a 1W LED Obviously 125 Lumens is illegally bright for sidelights...
It says speed limit of 30 mph or less. Why would it NOT apply to roads "over 30 mph", I've read it of course, but logic tells me it's saying it's okay if the speed limit is 30 or under. Unless, I've misunderstood what you're saying here. Regards, Jim
I found as a car driver the farm entrance layby's are the best with the greenery section between the road.Only problem is farm vehicles tend to pass through often so can't sleep for long!The layby's right next to main roads are dangerous, don't use them unless it's a urgent short stop.There are free overnight parking places but you need to get the app and pay for info.
Thanks for bringing this to poeple's attention. There have been articles in the news about this (old) law again recently and Plod have decided they've nothing better to do ... and have upset a few 😢 I never park on a fast flowing road, cos I don't wanna be hit by a lorry ‼️ I park urban, but it's a small van, unlike your MoHo. Hope you are keeping warm these cold and frosty nights ...
Hi Jo, I'm with you there - not a place I'd want to park either. Finn and I are grateful for the diesel heater and the warm bedding. Finn is only little, so he's fine snuggled up under the covers next to me anyways. Regards, Jim
I never knew this an often see Lorry drivers do it. An Lights on overnight drain battery. I guess is if some police have nothing to do they will fine somebody, an another revenue raising exercise.
@@AmsterVAN66it's real legislation! 😮 The Road Transport Lighting Acts 1927, 1945, 1953, 1957 & later in addition to isolated provisions in the Road Traffic Acts of 1934, 1956 & later.
Sorry I did not watch all the video, in case you mentioned it ! ! is there anything about which way you should be facing when parked up ! seems obvious if parked right next to the road, it would not be good having a white light facing oncoming traffic.
Also, Be careful also parking on The Verge .. Yes Gypsy & Other members of travelling communities do it, ( but they are an exception ) With certain vehicles ( i'e HGVs & other Commercial Vehicles) assuming the surface is suitable to bare the weight, This is Illegal ( even if you own the land you could still get moved on, or get a ticket for clausing a distraction to passing traffic) as an HGV driver for many years ( being resident the vehicle 4 nights between weekly rests ) If forced to park next to the highway in a " layby" 1st choice would always be a " Set back layby" This is a layby with a " physical divider " between it, and the highway this " divider " might of a Raised Curb, with marking cones, or an area of Pavement, Grass etc .. DONT PARK IN THE ACCESS or EXIT LANE ( at best you get a ticket ) Occasionally you might see a Truck stationary on the Access lane, this vehicle will clearly mark it's self using every means available ( The driver is here because they have exhausted there hours while searching for a suitable place to stop in order to " Take a legally required rest period/ Break ) This may occasionally be seen on the Hard Shoulder of a Motorway ( especially if there's been a long delay ) ======== Regarding, Other layby'S and Verges or lengths of disused road used as such ( Leaving aside that your not clausing an obstruction, etc ) To remain in such, there are requirements for providing advance warning during periods of " reduced visibility " ( the one your most likely encounter is ) Night ( This is officially the period commencing 1/2 hour after sunset to 1/2 before sunrise ) During which " Clear Marking " will be required by illumination by recognised signaling ( Red light on rear, white on front, or Orange markers etc ) either provided by your vehicles own lighting or other source ( example lantern) ============ Hence in order to remain" Legal " it's much easier to take longer periods of rest in " Set Back " or other suitable sites ( licenced parking ( for example Truck Stops, Company Premises) ======== Leafy Secluded Layby's & Rest Areas Thou Peaceful AVOID as with these you are easy pickings for Thieves & Thugs ( this is likely where " Johnny Pi$$head " and his mates will likely pull up for a pee, or to pork a tart .. ) say no more. ======= Safe journeys John ( The Retired Trucker )
Hi Jim l today learned if you retire and live certain countries you could not draw your retirement pension have you heard of this, also be aware of local bylaws in certain areas
Hi Daniel, yes I've heard of it. But as I understand it your "state pension" won't go up (but you can draw it) if you live in certain countries. Tbh it's total cacamas! If you get my drift, but true nonetheless unfortunately. I'm not there yet - another 9 years to go to the the state pension. Regards, Jim
That's a good suggestion, I'm looking into something like that for my van should I need to park on one of those lay-bys for longer than I'd really care to. Regards, Jim
Huge debate about this one. Overnight parking is not illegal. However, illegal parking is!! Parking in a lay-by like the type you suggest becomes illegal if you don’t have lights on. You should( in theory) only be liable for a “parking” fine if you are parked where there are written restrictions, otherwise you maybe trespassing- if you are trespassing then you can be moved on - but not fined- unless you refuse to move. If you are legally parked ie: no signage saying you can’t ( and a hand painted one by the local farmer will not normally suffice) you should definitely contest any ticket you get. I’m wondering if the folks you say have got tickets are because parking in a lay-by immediately adjacent a highway without lights at night may be deemed a traffic offence. Can of worms opened 😃
We have lived more than four years in our mh. We have slept in numerous laybys. We never had a problem but we knew the law. It applies to all vehicles. We have never parked near to entrance/exit of a layby. But we have never left lights on. Its hardly likely anyone is going to bother you to be honest. There are not enough police to be arsed anymore. Only once have the police come to us and that was in a car park thst we were legally parked in and the local busy body councillor thought we were gypsies. When the police went back to her she wasn't convinced so she had the barriers brought down to stop the rest of us arriving!!!
Amanda, I'm going travelling soon... The van tour is on the 'to do list', sorry for the delay. Not sure about 'doggy day trips' where I got he goes! Best wishes, Jim
I can't understand why people sod about like this, trying to find a place to park up at night when there is a vast network of campsites in the UK and overnight schemes like Britstops. What's the point in forking out a load of money on a motorhome and then putting it and yourself at risk to save a few quid.
Years ago, lights were required for (all) vehicles parked on (any) road; which is why most folks had Kenyons Road/Railway Lantern running on paraffin, and lit, and also stuck on the sides of their cars. Before the law got scrapped, (or apparently part of it did), the cops were absolute bastards on enforcing it. Didn't know that part of it still exists, many thanks for the update: seems that I'm now gonna' have to invest in some magnetised lamps with decent batteries from Amazon, red for the back, and white for the front; cos you know one thing in this world, some dick in a uniform will arbitrarily decided that front facing traffic also needs to see you, .. Which is what a lot of the cops also did way back then did, resulting in having two oil lamps hung fore and aft. Many thanks for the update again!
These are Fixed Penalty Notices issued by the Police and are not governed by Civil Enforcement ( councils), unless cited in the Traffic Regulation Orders and have a valid Time plate or visible Plate explaining contraventions. Fixed Penalty Notices can impose a £100 fine ++, three points or court appearance. Penalty charge Notice is a Civil Enforcement issue, and a Parking charge Notice is a Private Company enforcement matter.
@@AmsterVAN66that's quite a big "IF", they're just as likely to be confused & take away "misinformation". 😢 It's simple -- you MUSTshow red & white lamps if you are anywhere on the Highway that's NOT subject to streetlights during "Lighting Up Time". (There are exceptions but they're limited & warrant their own section to reduce confusion) Obviously some people take confusion as a sport -- they will have to wait while till a Judge or Magistrate explains while taking away their License.
People need to be responsible for their own vehicles, I'm just bringing something up that they may not have been aware of in the first instance. Regards, Jim
Don’t register your motorhome where you keep it. If you live in it they can’t take it, if they do clamp it you can get the clamp removed under these grounds.
The Law has been in place in various forms since 1927 & codified into a single law in 1957. It applies to *"The Highway"* not any private land or land adopted or owned by the Local Authority (& a Tarmaced are may be split amon) among various owners). It was certainly plain in the Highway Code when i passed my Test in 1980. Perhaps the Law doesn't apply to people under 60? 😂😂😮😢😢 I have 2 bicycle lamps & some string...
Thanks for the video, but it should really be common sense isn't it. Like you said I wouldn't want to park over night in one of those 'on road' layby's. Happy new Year to you
(The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989b)in a lay-by- (i)the limits of which are indicated by a traffic sign consisting of the road marking shown in diagram 1010 in Schedule 2 of the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 1981(1); or (ii)the surface of which is of a colour or texture which is different from that of the part of the carriageway of the road used primarily by through traffic; or (iii)the limits of which are indicated by a continuous strip of surface of a different colour or texture from that of the surface of the remainder of the carriageway of the road; or (c)elsewhere than in such a parking place or lay-by if- (i)the vehicle is parked in one of the circumstances described in paragraph (8); and (ii)no part of the vehicle is less than 10 m from the junction of any part of the carriageway of any road with the carriageway of the road on which it is parked whether that junction is on the same side of the road as that on which the vehicle is parked or not.
@AmsterVAN66 it's just a way to deter or punish Jim, and something that's become more widespread to use parking to pick people's pockets. A fine is always a kick in the teeth or punch in the gut.
I read it as; You can park on a road with a 30mph limit, or less. Away from junction. Near the kerb. Same direction as traffic. Or in a lay-by. Without lights.
And one salient point you're missing "not exceeding 2500kg", so if you're driving a car you're fine. Cars weigh between 1,400 to 2000 KG, but if you're in a van (maybe an empty van is okay), campervan, motorhome or lorry it probably won't fly. Regards, Jim P.S. and check Highway Code rule 249 regarding cars
shame these sharp eyed coppers dont do the job they are employed to do and catch criminals they dont seem to see the criminals at night but see the cash cow easy pickings ,
Thank you for this info , but you don't have to pay these tickets. You have NO CONTRACT. They are statute laws. Do not pay the ticket as it is NO lawful.
I wasn't aware, I've stayed in my van in these type of places (when I've had no other option), i've never had a ticket however appreciate the heads up.
I know a driver that ran into another lorry parked in a layby and the lorry in the layby was to blame due to no lights.it is do able now with LED lights only an idiot would park without marker lights
Known about it for donkeys years !
Back in the day, there was a light fitting specially made for this with a clear and red lens.
It had a metal bracket that fitted over the drivers window so you were able to close the window and you connected it to the cigarette lighter (if fitted) or a spare battery.
Hi Kevin. Interesting about how it was done back in the day. Regards, Jim
I remember my dad fitting them when parked overnight outside the house on the street - thought it was because of the smog/fog. Copper would knock on the door but no fines needed !!
Hi John, a few people have mentioned this type of thing - interesting. Regards, Jim
The Zephyr 4 actually had a switch that turned the nearside lights off.
Been driving 55 years , didn’t know that. Thanks. Phil.
You're welcome. Best wishes, Jim
you are right about the dangers of lay-bys because i indicated to pull into a roadside lay-by and the guy behind me followed me in at full speed while i was slowing down. What he was thinking i do not know. I floored the throttle and just got out of his way in time to avoid a rear end collision.
Always allow for some crazy git out there, as you did! Best wishes, Jim
Good vlog again Jim .. I knew about the layby rule and i personally wouldnt want to be right next to a main road wasting power keeping lights on.😊
Yes, totally agree with you there. Regards, Jim
Wow, big grey area that one Jim!
The rule about lights on at night for vehicles you mentioned applies to them being parked roadside anywhere not just laybys and in my 40+ years of driving I have never heard of anyone being fined for parking without lights on at night, unless facing opposite direction to oncoming traffic and that's the only one I know of in all those years!
And the "No overnight parking or camping" sign are not legally enforceable as they are not imposed by the road traffic act and not the concern of the police, they are erected by parish and district councils and as such only enforceable by them!
If your vehicle is legal then there is no reason you cannot park in said designated parking areas, as ultimately this forms part of the highway itself!
Also "overnight parking and camping" is open to interpretation as is "sleeping", all terms that are not provable nor definitive!
Ultimately it all depends how "compliant or submissive" you wish to be with the police when they try to intimidate, pry or simply hassle people!
Please don't forget the police do as they are tol and do not study the "laws" they uphold which are usually "acts of parliament or statutes" which only carry the "force of law with the consent of the governed!"
I don't make the rules, I just try to comprehend them and not be abused by them!
I rest my case M'Lud! Haha! ✌
Wow! That's a lot to take in. I like the 'non-enforceable' bit in there regarding signs and what you said about them only being in enforceable by the Parish council which makes perfect sense. I'll try to remember this should I need to use that card sometime. The 'fine/ticket' I mentioned is a real thing, but perhaps it isn't applied that often, but anyhow I'm only putting it out there for awareness. Thanks for your input. Best wishes, Jim
@AmsterVAN66 Sorry if lot to comprehend but just trying to clarify things as it is a bit of a minefield, it's just about knowing how "legalise" is used against us on a daily basis!
Thanks for bringing attention to it and giving a space for us all to discuss and try to make sense of it, you posting here gives us a platform for that! 👍✌
@AmsterVAN66 Just another point, the only time those parking/camping signs would be enforceable by the police is if a TRO (Traffic Restriction Order) had been issued which covered said layby or parking space and this would have to be posted at the location with all relevant restrictions imposed along with its traceable reference number included on the document, then the police can uphold stated restrictions!
Noted - thanks again. Regards, Jim
On many vehicles, if you leave the indicator stalk not in the centre position, the side light front and back will remain on. This means you are using half the electrical power from your battery. Back in the sixties even in a 30 mph area vehicles had to have a parking light, these could be purchased from auto factors. They clipped onto your side window and plugged into the lighter socket.
Interesting info my friend. Regards, Jim
Very useful thankyou ive had a full licence since 1972 so thankyou again happy journeys
Wonderful! Best wishes, Jim
I hadn’t be aware of this in the Highway Code but am now because of your video. Many thanks for letting us know.
Glad I could help! Regards, Jim
Thanks I didn't know that. I prefer the set back with a bit of gress/trees etc. But I have actually in desperation parked on the ones your talking about. Thanks again.
Glad I could help! And yes, same here - will avoid even more now though. Best wishes, Jim
Cheers for this information.. this totally takes out 90% of the sites im potentially looking at for parking as im driving around the country for work
Sorry to hear it although I do know it's not strictly enforced. Best wishes, Jim
Why don't you rig up a low wattage parking light then you would be ok and you could park
in all those places, it sounds like it would be worth it in your case.
no it does not, just put your lights on surely?
Hi Edward, yes I think this would be sensible, but in my case I really don't like parking overnight in those kind of lay-bys. But, for the odd occasion, a low wattage light would be a good measure to take. Regards, Jim
Thanks for that....I didn't know that but always use common sense... however last year I was parked up in December on a similar to layby with trees between it and the road between Achnasheen and Kinlochewe....never got a fine or ticking off but a smashed rear barn door window
Hi Brian, yes common sense is the key. Glad to share the knowledge. Best wishes, Jim
Hi Jim,
Some good information there...
I've been a lorry driver for 43yrs, now retired.
I never knew that law but would never & have never parked overnight in a lay-by with no protection from the carriageway, tbh I expect I could count one hand the amount of times I've parked in any type of lay-by in my whole career..
Lay-by's weren't for me...
Hi Steve, yes those lay-bys with no protection just aren't a good option anyway. I suppose it depends on your driving job as to where and when you might need to park overnight. Enjoy your retirement because after 43 years you deserve it. Best wishes, Jim
The FTA, RHA, RAC, AA & many others have spelled it out _very_ clearly since at least 1957 - 68 years ago. 😮
It's surprising how many people aren't aware of it though. Regards, Jim
Rule 249 of the Highway Code says All vehicles MUST display parking lights when parked on a road or a lay-by on a road with a speed limit greater than 30 mph (48 km/h).
I take that as meaning not just anything over 2500kgs.
I live near a 40 mph road and the Police have, many years ago, ticketed cars for being parked without lights.
Great point, my channel is about van life, but I believe you're right. Seems a bit daft to then have rule "250" that specifically says vehicles exceeding 2,500kg... Thank you! Jim
@ I’ve just re read rule 250 a few times and it seems pedantic.
Rule 250
Cars, goods vehicles not exceeding 2500 kg laden weight, invalid carriages, motorcycles and pedal cycles may be parked without lights on a road (or lay-by) with a speed limit of 30 mph (48 km/h) or less if they are:
at least 10 metres (32 feet) away from any junction, close to the kerb and facing in the direction of the traffic flow
in a recognised parking place or lay-by.
Other vehicles and trailers, and all vehicles with projecting loads, MUST NOT be left on a road at night without lights.
So, my Van that has a weight of 2700kgs can’t be left on the street without lights…..I’m either wrong or not understanding the rules.
Regarding the 40mph and above, it’s definitely a rule for all vehicles abut the police never seem to enforce near me now. I remember back in the 80’s they did enforce it but allowed residents to put a rear Light off a Bicycle on the rear parcel shelf which ran on batteries rather than them flattening the cars starter battery. Still gave the red glow, but prevented flat car batteries.
Yes, I just err on the side of caution, i.e. no chance of breaking the law - ideally anyway. And we all need to do this for own particular circumstances. Regards, Jim
Thanks buddy..never knew that!!! I do now😁!! Knowledge is power!!
Glad to help. Best wishes, Jim
All vehicles MUST display parking lights when parked on a road or a lay-by on a road with a speed limit greater than 30 mph
You're right - rule 249 and 250 of the Highway Code. My channel is for van life as you can see. Actually why rule 250 points out the weight exceeding 2,500kg then is a bit confusing. Best wishes, Jim
You should illuminate your PARK lights fitted to all vehicles. Either on the offside or nearside. All vehicles have this setting on their light stalk or electronic lighting settings. Thats what they are intended for. If your vehicle is using the PARK light, then the owner/user is NOT guilty of this offence. Vehicle batteries are fitted with a specific low power loom to facilitate the low power draw during the hours of darkness. You must also refer to the issued hours which are available online for official LUT or Lighting Up Times. They change everyday. If you are given a ticket outside of these times, you are well within your rights to challenge the issued TOR. This is why the offence under the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations Act 1989 applies. It is NOT where you are parked, it is due to the fact that there is insufficient or adequate warning lighting to other road users. Hope this helps (And yes, I am a former traffic cop)!
"You should illuminate your PARK lights fitted to all vehicles. Either on the offside or nearside. All vehicles have this setting on their light stalk or electronic lighting settings." Oh no they don't.
Interesting, thank you for the info. Regards, Jim
Thank you. Jim
@@ScepticPJOh yes they do!
In the uk theyr'e called "Side Lights" or "Corner Marker Lamps"! 😮
This law derives from EU law. Hence German cars have a red parking light on the side the indicator is depressed on, when engine is off. This satisfies the regulation.
You can fit 12 v 1 watt led bulbs which will just use 5 watt every hour , you can also make a dual circuit where you charge a small 12 v battery when running engine they can be found at Screwfix for 25 pound and than just use that circuit at night .
interesting suggestion. Thanks, Jim
Just leave your parling lights on at night. They are designed to be able to be left on over night without draining your battery. For example a battery rated at 80 amp-hours should be able to handle 32 hours of continuous sidelight use.
I guess it depends on the vehicle, but a great comment. Thanks, Jim
Wasn’t a rule I was aware of. Thanks for the heads up. 👍👍👍
No worries! Best wishes, Jim
I'd never park overnight in a spot like that anyway tbh, it was bad enough taking a 45m break in the truck let alone chancing it for a whole night in a soft shell camper, the things you see are stupendous at night !!
Hi Mark, yes I'd agree with you there. Best wishes, Jim
I can't say I've parked in a layby next to the road overnight but if I did I think I would feel unsafe if
I didn't have any lights on, I would always feel that someone is going to rear end me. I think I would put some lights on anyway.
At least then you are covered, best to try and keep legal and not attract any unwanted attention.
I concur Edward. Best wishes, Jim
You can contact the local authorities who should inform you of their parking areas for longer vehicles and overnight parking
I'm not entirely sure about that one Peter. Best wishes, Jim
Yes your right. And I park in my live in my motor home in laybys a lot. Have fitted led parking lights independent of van main lights, these run off the auxiliary batteries and draw about 1watt each,
Can switch on rear only or all four (Front and rear) as well as for saftey it helps with security as doesn't make it look like you parked there for the night. As there on the auxiliary circuit with the diesel night heater it wont drain the starting battery. Never had a problem and can easily run both parking lights, night heater, etc for 10 hours at a time on two 100amp leasure batterys.
Hi Gary, that's a great option/tip. Thank you, Jim
i haven't researched properly but i believe 1W may be too bright for some. Their actual brightness is reasonably unrelated to Watts, the figure you need is Lumens & a 5W filament lamp is likely to produce 40 Lumens &anything between 40 Lumens & 125 Lumens for a 1W LED Obviously 125 Lumens is illegally bright for sidelights...
Thank you, that really did need to be shared. Stay safe
You're welcome. Best wishes, Jim
You must use lights for the exceptions listed.
None of Rule 250 applies to roads over 30mph.
It says speed limit of 30 mph or less. Why would it NOT apply to roads "over 30 mph", I've read it of course, but logic tells me it's saying it's okay if the speed limit is 30 or under. Unless, I've misunderstood what you're saying here. Regards, Jim
I found as a car driver the farm entrance layby's are the best with the greenery section between the road.Only problem is farm vehicles tend to pass through often so can't sleep for long!The layby's right next to main roads are dangerous, don't use them unless it's a urgent short stop.There are free overnight parking places but you need to get the app and pay for info.
Thanks for your input. Regards, Jim
Thanks for bringing this to poeple's attention. There have been articles in the news about this (old) law again recently and Plod have decided they've nothing better to do ... and have upset a few 😢
I never park on a fast flowing road, cos I don't wanna be hit by a lorry ‼️ I park urban, but it's a small van, unlike your MoHo. Hope you are keeping warm these cold and frosty nights ...
Hi Jo, I'm with you there - not a place I'd want to park either. Finn and I are grateful for the diesel heater and the warm bedding. Finn is only little, so he's fine snuggled up under the covers next to me anyways. Regards, Jim
I never knew this an often see Lorry drivers do it. An Lights on overnight drain battery.
I guess is if some police have nothing to do they will fine somebody, an another revenue raising exercise.
Yes, that's the danger, a cop with time on his/her hands. Regards, Jim
thanks for the info I never knew this .. cheers
Glad to help. Regards, Jim
i was not aware thanks
You're welcome. Regards, Jim
I was a lorry driver for 40yrs and twice I got fined for parking in a lay-by close to the road with no lights on
Thanks for this comment as there are a couple of messages suggesting I should take this video down as it's not real legislation. Best wishes, Jim
@@AmsterVAN66it's real legislation! 😮
The Road Transport Lighting Acts 1927, 1945, 1953,
1957 & later in addition to isolated provisions in the Road Traffic Acts of 1934, 1956 & later.
I'm the same , over forty years class 1 ( retired) I always parked in laybys but never got fined for it , even taken a 24 in one no problem
Sorry I did not watch all the video, in case you mentioned it ! ! is there anything about which way you should be facing when parked up ! seems obvious if parked right next to the road, it would not be good having a white light facing oncoming traffic.
It would be wise to face the right way at night. Regards, Jim
Also, Be careful also parking on The Verge ..
Yes Gypsy & Other members of travelling communities do it, ( but they are an exception )
With certain vehicles ( i'e HGVs & other Commercial Vehicles) assuming the surface is suitable to bare the weight, This is Illegal
( even if you own the land you could still get moved on, or get a ticket for clausing a distraction to passing traffic)
as an HGV driver for many years ( being resident the vehicle 4 nights between weekly rests )
If forced to park next to the highway in a " layby"
1st choice would always be a " Set back layby"
This is a layby with a " physical divider " between it, and the highway
this " divider " might of a Raised Curb, with marking cones, or an area of Pavement, Grass etc ..
DONT PARK IN THE ACCESS or EXIT LANE ( at best you get a ticket )
Occasionally you might see a Truck stationary on the Access lane, this vehicle will clearly mark it's self using every means available
( The driver is here because they have exhausted there hours while searching for a suitable place to stop in order to " Take a legally required rest period/ Break )
This may occasionally be seen on the Hard Shoulder of a Motorway ( especially if there's been a long delay )
========
Regarding, Other layby'S and Verges or lengths of disused road used as such
( Leaving aside that your not clausing an obstruction, etc )
To remain in such, there are requirements for providing advance warning during periods of " reduced visibility "
( the one your most likely encounter is ) Night
( This is officially the period commencing 1/2 hour after sunset to 1/2 before sunrise )
During which " Clear Marking " will be required by illumination by recognised signaling
( Red light on rear, white on front, or Orange markers etc )
either provided by your vehicles own lighting or other source ( example lantern)
============
Hence in order to remain" Legal " it's much easier to take longer periods of rest in " Set Back "
or other suitable sites ( licenced parking ( for example Truck Stops, Company Premises)
========
Leafy Secluded Layby's & Rest Areas
Thou Peaceful AVOID
as with these you are easy pickings for Thieves & Thugs
( this is likely where " Johnny Pi$$head " and his mates will likely pull up for a pee, or to pork a tart .. ) say no more.
=======
Safe journeys
John ( The Retired Trucker )
Hi John, thanks for the info, great input - thanks for taking the time. Regards, Jim
Hi Jim l today learned if you retire and live certain countries you could not draw your retirement pension have you heard of this, also be aware of local bylaws in certain areas
Hi Daniel, yes I've heard of it. But as I understand it your "state pension" won't go up (but you can draw it) if you live in certain countries. Tbh it's total cacamas! If you get my drift, but true nonetheless unfortunately. I'm not there yet - another 9 years to go to the the state pension. Regards, Jim
You do not need lights as such on you need parking lights on
Simple way to do it
Red rear and front white cycle lights
That's a good suggestion, I'm looking into something like that for my van should I need to park on one of those lay-bys for longer than I'd really care to. Regards, Jim
Huge debate about this one. Overnight parking is not illegal. However, illegal parking is!! Parking in a lay-by like the type you suggest becomes illegal if you don’t have lights on. You should( in theory) only be liable for a “parking” fine if you are parked where there are written restrictions, otherwise you maybe trespassing- if you are trespassing then you can be moved on - but not fined- unless you refuse to move. If you are legally parked ie: no signage saying you can’t ( and a hand painted one by the local farmer will not normally suffice) you should definitely contest any ticket you get. I’m wondering if the folks you say have got tickets are because parking in a lay-by immediately adjacent a highway without lights at night may be deemed a traffic offence. Can of worms opened 😃
Lol sounds like parking in a minefield haha! Best wishes, Jim
Not a good idea to block farmers access
So true, that wouldn't be happy! Regards, Jim
We have lived more than four years in our mh. We have slept in numerous laybys. We never had a problem but we knew the law. It applies to all vehicles. We have never parked near to entrance/exit of a layby. But we have never left lights on. Its hardly likely anyone is going to bother you to be honest. There are not enough police to be arsed anymore. Only once have the police come to us and that was in a car park thst we were legally parked in and the local busy body councillor thought we were gypsies. When the police went back to her she wasn't convinced so she had the barriers brought down to stop the rest of us arriving!!!
Probably right about the police nowadays tbh. Regards, Jim
Thanks for this. I had no idea.
Then this video has met its objective. Take care, Jim
Lots of foreign Artics beach this rule, notably on the A1. But not attempt at enforcement.
I guess down to the fact they are doing other things 'resources'. Regards, Jim
Warning when parking up in lay-bys. Always be careful were you're treading, especially in the dark, lorry driver scat everywhere.
Have a torch handy. Regards, Jim
Are you going to do places of interest, van tour, doggy day trips etc😊
Amanda, I'm going travelling soon... The van tour is on the 'to do list', sorry for the delay. Not sure about 'doggy day trips' where I got he goes! Best wishes, Jim
I can't understand why people sod about like this, trying to find a place to park up at night when there is a vast network of campsites in the UK and overnight schemes like Britstops. What's the point in forking out a load of money on a motorhome and then putting it and yourself at risk to save a few quid.
Well George, I appreciate your point of view, but not everyone would agree. Best wishes, Jim
Years ago, lights were required for (all) vehicles parked on (any) road; which is why most folks had Kenyons Road/Railway Lantern running on paraffin, and lit, and also stuck on the sides of their cars.
Before the law got scrapped, (or apparently part of it did), the cops were absolute bastards on enforcing it.
Didn't know that part of it still exists, many thanks for the update: seems that I'm now gonna' have to invest in some magnetised lamps with decent batteries from Amazon, red for the back, and white for the front; cos you know one thing in this world, some dick in a uniform will arbitrarily decided that front facing traffic also needs to see you, ..
Which is what a lot of the cops also did way back then did, resulting in having two oil lamps hung fore and aft.
Many thanks for the update again!
Thanks for giving me the background on this. Best wishes, Jim
Was one of those laybys on the A614?
Tony, it's possible (I don't know tbh), I drove around to a few lay-bys near me, but these photos off the internet were better examples. Regards, Jim
The war on plant food and freedom will mean more stringent policing of anyone on more than 2 wheels.
Indeed my friend. Regards, Jim
Eh?
Right wingers like Priti Patel & her successors in both parties are who put "more stringent policing" into place not lobbyists! 😮
#VoteWisely!
Only road above 30 mph
Seems so, see rule 249 + 250 of the highway code. Thanks, Jim
@AmsterVAN66 I drive hgv out of Felixstowe vosa on a14 hot on it
Surely thats what reflectors are for
Well, apparently reflectors aren't deemed to be sufficient. But I get what you're saying. Regards, Jim
Don't forget to ask people to like and subscribe Jim.
Useful information today. Enjoy .
Hey Steve. Thanks for that! Regard, Jim.
These are Fixed Penalty Notices issued by the Police and are not governed by Civil Enforcement ( councils), unless cited in the Traffic Regulation Orders and have a valid Time plate or visible Plate explaining contraventions. Fixed Penalty Notices can impose a £100 fine ++, three points or court appearance. Penalty charge Notice is a Civil Enforcement issue, and a Parking charge Notice is a Private Company enforcement matter.
Great information but you've taken 9 minutes to explain 30 seconds of knowledge 😴
Sorry about that, but if it saves someone getting a ticket it might be 9 minutes well spent. Best wishes, Jim
@@AmsterVAN66that's quite a big "IF", they're just as likely to be confused & take away "misinformation". 😢
It's simple -- you MUSTshow red & white lamps if you are anywhere on the Highway that's NOT subject to streetlights during "Lighting Up Time".
(There are exceptions but they're limited & warrant their own section to reduce confusion)
Obviously some people take confusion as a sport -- they will have to wait while till a Judge or Magistrate explains while taking away their License.
People need to be responsible for their own vehicles, I'm just bringing something up that they may not have been aware of in the first instance. Regards, Jim
Playback speed x1.5, but a good post
Thank you. Regards, Jim
Don’t register your motorhome where you keep it. If you live in it they can’t take it, if they do clamp it you can get the clamp removed under these grounds.
Thanks for the info. Regards, Jim
I’m an ex traffic warden supervisor you are correct
And I enjoyed my job and was very fair and chose education rather than fining.
The Law has been in place in various forms since 1927 & codified into a single law in 1957. It applies to *"The Highway"* not any private land or land adopted or owned by the Local Authority (& a Tarmaced are may be split amon) among various owners).
It was certainly plain in the Highway Code when i passed my Test in 1980.
Perhaps the Law doesn't apply to people under 60? 😂😂😮😢😢
I have 2 bicycle lamps & some string...
Alan, thanks for your informative input. Regards, Jim
Thanks for the video, but it should really be common sense isn't it. Like you said I wouldn't want to park over night in one of those 'on road' layby's. Happy new Year to you
True, and happy New Year to you too. Jim
(The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989b)in a lay-by-
(i)the limits of which are indicated by a traffic sign consisting of the road marking shown in diagram 1010 in Schedule 2 of the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 1981(1); or
(ii)the surface of which is of a colour or texture which is different from that of the part of the carriageway of the road used primarily by through traffic; or
(iii)the limits of which are indicated by a continuous strip of surface of a different colour or texture from that of the surface of the remainder of the carriageway of the road; or
(c)elsewhere than in such a parking place or lay-by if-
(i)the vehicle is parked in one of the circumstances described in paragraph (8); and
(ii)no part of the vehicle is less than 10 m from the junction of any part of the carriageway of any road with the carriageway of the road on which it is parked whether that junction is on the same side of the road as that on which the vehicle is parked or not.
All i can say Jim, i probably wouldn't, but i didn't know the law. Just good old common sense.
James, I totally agree, but good to know it's potentially a 'ticket' too. Take care, Jim
@AmsterVAN66 it's just a way to deter or punish Jim, and something that's become more widespread to use parking to pick people's pockets. A fine is always a kick in the teeth or punch in the gut.
Indeed my friend. Regards, Jim
I read it as;
You can park on a road with a 30mph limit, or less.
Away from junction.
Near the kerb.
Same direction as traffic.
Or in a lay-by.
Without lights.
And one salient point you're missing "not exceeding 2500kg", so if you're driving a car you're fine. Cars weigh between 1,400 to 2000 KG, but if you're in a van (maybe an empty van is okay), campervan, motorhome or lorry it probably won't fly. Regards, Jim P.S. and check Highway Code rule 249 regarding cars
Like, share, subscribe for the guy.
Thank you so much! Best wishes for 2025. Jim
👍
shame these sharp eyed coppers dont do the job they are employed to do and catch criminals they dont seem to see the criminals at night but see the cash cow easy pickings ,
Indeed. Regards, Jim
Useful information. Shame it took 9 minutes of pointless waffle to say it.
Well, if that 9 minutes saves you from a £100 ticket then it might not seem so bad. Regards, Jim
💤💤
4 min of waffle before you get to the point ....
Yes, I tend to waffle, sorry. Regards, Jim
Thank you for this info , but you don't have to pay these tickets.
You have NO CONTRACT.
They are statute laws.
Do not pay the ticket as it is NO lawful.
Hi Kevin, if you dispute it you then get a court date and people have been fined for it in court, .i.e. found guilty. So I beg to differ. Regards, Jim
@@kevinricketts6098 read the highway code 249:and 250!
Nonsense
I wasn't aware, I've stayed in my van in these type of places
(when I've had no other option), i've never had a ticket however appreciate the heads up.
Me too, but... it can happen. You're welcome my friend. Jim
I know a driver that ran into another lorry parked in a layby and the lorry in the layby was to blame due to no lights.it is do able now with LED lights only an idiot would park without marker lights
Yes, it can be very dangerous. Regards, Jim
There's plenty of íđìôtš 😢😢