Over Zealous Traffic Wardens and Yellow Lines

  Another all too frequent issue we see is the problem of picking up/dropping off on double yellow lines.

  Countless numbers of drivers have received PCN's when picking up or dropping off customers on double yellow lines.You've probablly seen this your self or at least heard of it. The result - drivers refuse to pick up jobs from certain (often busy/popular) locations.

  So let's clarify the matter:

Note it says NO WAITING. If you are dropping off or picking up a passenger then this is not classed as waiting this is classed as LOADING/UNLOADING. You may stop to load or unload (unless there are also loading restrictions) or while passengers board or alight.
 What this does not mean is you can wait for your passenger to arrive when you have a pickup at a location with double yellow lines. So if your passenger is not there circle around until they are or pull away and have your office re-book the job for a short time after. (5mins or so)
  If you are dropping something off for a customer, ie a package delivery what it does mean is you can do it there at the road side and stop on the yellow lines to do it. It does not mean you can stop your car on the yellow lines and go deliver the item(s). If you leave your car, you are parked/waiting and the fine will still apply.
  ***Remember these exemptions only apply for the duration of pickinh up/dropping off your customer and should be done in a resonable time - don't rush it but don't take advantage either***

What to do if you get a PCN whilst dropping off/picking up on yellow lines

1. Do not get into an argument with the Traffic Warden - make the assumption he/she is an idiot and accept the PCN. Get on with your job and wait for your PCN to be delivered.
2. Once you have your ticket/PCN write to the address stated on it giving your full details and the details of the fare you were collecting/dropping off.
3. In your letter make certain you use the phrase "I was on the yellow line(s) for the duration it took whilst my passenger boarded/alighted, and moved away immediatly after"
4. Send your letter recorded delivery.

For further clarrification visit http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/travelandtransport/highwaycode/signsandmarkings/index.htm and Download 'Road markings' (PDF, 715K)