CLAMPING cars is on the rise, with the DVLA most commonly incapacitating vehicles for failing to have road tax.
The zero tolerance approach means that no vehicle is safe, from ambulances to police cars, the rules apply to all.
What happens if my car is clamped?
Cars are clamped usually because they are parked improperly on public parking land, or they are untaxed and on a public road.
But if you have been clamped in a privately owned car park, you have been illegally targeted.
Clamping on private land was outlawed in 2012, although residents may alert you to the error of your ways.
In this situation, demand the clamp is removed — even if you have parked improperly, but you may still have to pay a penalty.
READ MORE ON ROAD LAWS
However, if you have made an error with your car parked in an area governed by a local council, it can legally clamp the car.
The DVLA uses automatic number plate readers to recognise untaxed cars on our streets.
If you have been clamped legally, follow the instructions attached to the vehicle.
You may be asked to pay on the spot or instead within a short time-frame of around 14 days.
READ MORE IN NEWS
It's advisable not to attempt to forcibly remove the clamp yourself as this can amount to criminal damage, for which you may be prosecuted.
Driving in this country is a costly hobby within itself, without adding more expense.
How do I get it released?
In most cases, you should just follow the instructions left on a note on your car.
You will need the reference number to quote, and there is usually a telephone number to call.
The authority will declare the fee you must pay to get the clamp released.
If your car isn't taxed, the DVLA may decide to take it to a pound.
If your car has been removed, contact the local police force on 101 or at the nearest station.
How much does it cost?
You'll have to pay a large fee to get the device removed.
It becomes more expensive if you haven't paid your road tax.
In which case, the fee may be as hefty as £200.
Fees can start from around £50 for more minor issues.
If you don't pay up you could see your car sold or scrapped as soon as two months after your tax is due.
Over 98 per cent of people pay their car tax on time but there has been a small increase in people running the risk of being clamped.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7tbTErKynZpOke7a3jqamraeiqHx3f5BraXBoX6y1osCMoZipqJWjwG6vwKtknKSRor2msIyhprBlopq5pq3SnptmoJ%2Bseq7BwqFknKejqXw%3D