Millions of Drivers Face Bailiffs for Unpaid Fines

The number of drivers facing bailiff visits due to unpaid traffic fines has dramatically increased, coinciding with the expansion of clean air zones across England and Wales. Recent figures indicate that approximately four million penalty charge notices (PCNs) were referred to enforcement agencies in the 2023/24 financial year, a significant rise from 2.4 million the previous year and a stark contrast to 1.3 million in 2017/18. AA president Edmund King highlighted the concerning trend, stating that antisocial behavior among motorists is becoming normalized, with many ignoring traffic regulations and parking rules. He emphasized the importance of compliance, noting that the best way to avoid fines is to adhere to road rules. King also pointed out that some drivers may ignore fines due to cloned number plates, advising them to address the issue with local authorities rather than dismissing the penalties. The financial implications of these enforcement actions are notable, as each bailiff visit adds an additional £235 to the outstanding bill. A spokesperson for the Local Government Association stressed that councils aim to maintain fair collection and enforcement policies, asserting that bailiffs should only be employed as a last resort. Motorists who believe they have been unfairly fined are encouraged to exercise their right to appeal against the charges. As the number of PCNs continues to rise, the call for responsible driving and adherence to traffic laws becomes increasingly urgent.