Crime Solicitors

Sheffield City Council has launched a crack down on Blue Badge fraud, which is estimated to cost the UK around £46 million every year.

The council is reminding people that improper use of a Blue Badge can lead to a criminal conviction and a fine of up to £1,000 – as well as any legal costs awarded by the court.

It is believed fraudulent Blue Badge use also poses a significant cost to Sheffield, as the council says that the pay-and-display parking areas are not being used as they should be.

Cabinet Member for transport and infrastructure at Sheffield City Council, Councillor Mazher Iqbal, said:

“We want Sheffield residents to be confident in their Blue Badge scheme – and want to tackle fraudulent use head-on.

“We have always taken Blue Badge fraud seriously – and have issued Penalty Charge Notices for improper use; but we are now taking the further step of prosecuting fraudulent use through the courts.

“Taking a tougher line also allows disabled parking bays to be used by genuine Blue Badge users. At the same time, we are being careful not to follow up genuine cases – for example, where someone has misplaced their Blue Badge – ensuring only those acting fraudulently are prosecuted.

“If you let someone else use your Blue Badge, they will be prosecuted and fined and your vehicle will get a penalty charge notice too – no one else can use your Blue Badge unless you are travelling with them,” he warned.

There are currently more than 24,000 Blue Badges in circulation within Sheffield – a total of 225 of these belong to organisations and the remainder are individual badges.

The council warns that those caught fraudulently using Blue Badges could have them confiscated, so the number of Blue Badges in use could be expected to reduce.

Disability Hub Chair John Quinn said he was pleased about the efforts of the council in preventing abuse and misuse of the Blue Badge scheme.

Mr Quinn has a mobility impairment and is unable to walk any distance greater than five or ten yards. He said:

“What people don’t realise is that, for many disabled people, the Blue Badge is the one thing that can offer us greater independence and help break down some of the barriers we face during our day-to-day lives.

“When I go out to see a band in the city, I need to park close to the venue. If drivers who don’t need a Blue Badge use designated spaces, they are taking away my freedom and ability to take part in my community.”

Council officials are warning that Blue Badges must only be displayed if people without a disability are travelling in the vehicle as a driver or passenger – or if someone is collecting or dropping off the badge holder – otherwise, using a Blue Badge is fraud, including others collecting shopping or items without the badge holder being present.

Duncan Lewis Motoring Solicitors

Duncan Lewis motoring solicitors can advise at any stage of a charge for motoring offences, Blue Badge fraud, illegal off road driving, careless or dangerous driving, causing death by dangerous driving, DUI, vehicle maintenance offences, driving uninsured or without a licence and speeding offences.

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide – and a Duncan Lewis criminal defence lawyer can usually reach a police station for interview under caution within an hour.

For expert legal advice on motoring offences, call Duncan Lewis motoring solicitors on 0333 772 0409.

For 24/7 help at a police station, call Duncan Lewis Solicitors 24-Hour Emergency Helpline on 0333 772 0607.