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photo: PATRICK PLEUL / dpa-Zentralbild / dpa Photo Alliance (AFP)
Drivers who mistakenly park their vehicles in areas reserved for the disabled will soon face fines of up to 400% in a bid to crack down on “selfish behaviour”, according to the Indian government.
The fee has not been updated since 2004, prompting the government to announce that from October 1, the fee will increase from $150 to $750.
Louise Upston
photo: RNZ/Samuel Rillstone
Louise Upston, minister for disabled people, said parking in areas reserved for disabled people was the “epitomy of arrogance”.
“We need to crack down on this selfish behavior, which is why we are taking action.”
“Increasing penalties for those who abuse mobile parking spaces will help level the playing field for people with disabilities by preventing unnecessary disruption to their daily lives.
“New Zealand’s penalties for mobile parking abuse are too low compared to other countries like Australia. Increasing penalties will send a very clear message that this behaviour is not okay and that our government is serious about addressing accessibility issues,” Upston said.
The government will also adjust fines for all parking offences in line with inflation – increasing fines by about 70 per cent across the board.
The increase in towing fees is intended to ensure that tow truck drivers are not left in the lurch as they are currently.
“Tow rates have been too low for too long. That means tow truck drivers often have to pay out of pocket for the services they provide. That’s unacceptable, which is why we’re updating our rates,” said Transportation Minister Simeon Brown.
“Parking infringement charges have not been updated in 20 years, making councils’ role in managing public car parks increasingly difficult. In Auckland, for example, this means paying a parking ticket is sometimes cheaper than paying for parking.”
For fees introduced after 2004, the Government has brought the increases in line with charges for similar offences.
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