How to Respond to a Parking Charge Letter Before Claim?

Question from peter, How to Respond to a Parking Charge Letter Before Claim?

Answer from AI:

If you have received a letter before claim from Gladstone Solicitors on behalf of Premier Parking Ltd regarding a parking ticket, it’s important to understand your rights and the steps you can take. Here’s a general guide on how to proceed:

Understanding the Letter Before Claim

A letter before claim is a formal notice that someone intends to bring legal proceedings against you. In the context of parking charges, it usually means that the parking company believes you owe them money for breaching their parking terms and conditions.

Steps to Take After Receiving the Letter

1. Read the Letter Carefully: Ensure you understand the details of the claim, including the reason for the parking charge, the amount they claim you owe, and the deadline for your response.
2. Check the Evidence: The letter should include evidence of the alleged parking infraction. Verify whether the evidence is accurate and whether it applies to your situation.
3. Gather Your Evidence: If you were loading or unloading in a zone where parking is prohibited, collect any evidence that supports your claim that you were not parked but actively engaged in moving out, such as tenancy agreements, witness statements, or photographs.
4. Review the Signage: Examine the signage in the area where you received the ticket. It should be clear, visible, and provide information on any exceptions for loading and unloading.
5. Check for Compliance: Ensure that the parking company has followed the proper procedures, such as the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, which outlines the requirements for issuing parking charges to vehicle keepers.
6. Respond to the Letter: You should respond to the letter before claim within the timeframe specified, usually 30 days. Your response should include your evidence and any reasons why you believe the charge is not justified.

Considerations for Your Response

• Challenge the Charge: If you believe the charge is unjust, you can challenge it. Explain why you were loading/unloading and provide any relevant evidence.
• Change of Address: If you did not receive the original ticket due to a change of address, inform the solicitors of this and provide evidence of your move, such as a change of address notification or a new tenancy agreement.
• Seek Legal Advice: If you are unsure about how to proceed, consider seeking legal advice. A solicitor can help you understand your rights and the best course of action.

Additional Resources

For more information on how to handle parking charge notices and letters before claim, you can refer to:

• The Citizens Advice Bureau, which provides guidance on appealing parking tickets.
• The Independent Appeals Service (IAS), which offers an alternative dispute resolution scheme for parking charges issued on private land.

Final Considerations

Remember that each case is unique, and the above information is a general guideline. It is not a substitute for professional legal advice. If you are uncertain about how to respond to the letter before claim, or if the matter escalates, you should consult with a legal professional who can provide personalized advice based on the specifics of your situation.

Note: It is important to act promptly and not ignore the letter before claim, as failing to respond could result in the parking company initiating court proceedings against you.