Older drivers hit with Blue Badge crackdown as 12-week warning issued
Elderly drivers suffering from medical conditions and disabilities could be caught out by a fresh crackdown on Blue Badge passes across the UK.
Older drivers suffering from disabilities could be slapped with a hefty £1,000 fine in a fresh crackdown on Blue Badge holders.
Currently, Blue Badges are only valid for three years with motorists required to renew them every 36 months.
Failure to do this could backfire on road users as using an out–of-date pass is likely to be considered ‘misuse’.
Motorists caught breaking the simple driving law will be issued a sizeable penalty with hefty fines in place for offenders.
However, road users may have to wait up to 12 weeks for councils to make a decision over whether to accept a new Blue Badge.
The rule means passes expiring in October or November 2024 have to be applied for now to ensure they arrive on time.
The latest warning comes after a tough crackdown on Blue Badge fraud from a Midlands council.
Sandwell Council, located just a stone's throw from Birmingham, has urged to take “swift action” against anyone unfairly using the scheme.
Sandwell Council’s deputy leader Paul Moore said: “Blue Badge fraud impacts the most vulnerable members of the public with disabilities or mobility issues.
“When a badge is misused this can result in disabled people being unable to find suitable parking, leading to missed appointments, an unwillingness to go out and ultimately, isolation from our community.
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“If you know, or suspect, someone may be misusing a Blue Badge let us know. Swift action will be taken.”
Recent crackdowns have also taken place in Redbridge where officials successfully achieved court convictions.
Last month more than 450 badges were seized in Enfield with over 2,200 offenders receiving Penalty Charge Notices.
A week-long crackdown was also in place across Inverclyde, Scotland back in May while badges were also seized in Hertfordshire earlier this year.
Blue Badges cost up to £10 in England and £20 in Scotland but motorists in Wales can secure one for free.
Although many motorists with disabilities will be eligible for the passes, some road users may find their application is denied.
GOV.UK revealed motorists can urge officials to think again or reapply later down the line if any medical conditions get worse.
They explained: “Your council should tell you why you’re not eligible for a Blue Badge.
“You can ask them to reconsider your case if you do not think all the important information you provided was taken into account. You can also reapply if your mobility problems become more serious.”
