Got a PCN despite ticket machines being out of order. What can I do?

My 18-year-old daughter was on holiday in Cornwall last week and received a parking charge notice. When she parked she tried to purchase a ticket, but both machines had a digital display showing 'out of order'. She left a note clearly displayed on her dashboard that the machine was out of order to explain why she had not purchased a ticket. Additionally, the notice quotes the wrong registration number. Is this grounds for refusing payment? My daughter is certainly going to appeal against the notice.

Asked on 29 September 2012 by AR, Stourbridge

Answered by Honest John

The ticket itself is illegal anyway. Ignore it. If they pursue her further, invite them to take the matter to court and if they continue bombarding you with threats, sue them for harassment, fraud and entrapment.

Tags: legal advice parking charges

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