Oct 15, 2019
Living in the UK? I’m sure it doesn’t surprise you that hundreds of thousands of cars are clamped every year in the UK for various reasons. Not surprisingly, it can be very expensive to get the device removed. If you don’t pay, the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency) can tow cars away if they are parked illegally on any public lands or roads.
As we mentioned above, cars are clamped because they are parked illegally on public parking land or they are untaxed on a public road. Have you been clamped in a privately-owned car park? If so, this means you have been illegally targeted, as clamping on private land was outlawed back in 2012.
If you find yourself in this situation you must demand that the clamp is removed, despite whether you have parked improperly or not. However, the catch is you may still have to pay a fine.
If you have parked in an area governed by a local council, your car can be legally clamped if your parking is deemed to be improper or posing a risk to other road users. The DVLA will use automatic number plate readers to identify individuals driving untaxed cars.
When in this situation, you will find instructions attached to your car. You need to follow the instructions, quoting the reference number to the telephone operator.
It’s not surprising that there is a hefty fee attached to a clamp. The fee to get the clamp removed can range from £50-£200. They can ask you to pay the fine on the spot, or within a 14-day time frame.
We DO NOT recommend trying to remove the clamp yourself as this can amount to criminal damage and you may be prosecuted. You may also damage your own car in the process.
Follow the instructions left attached to your car. The authority will declare the fee you must pay for the clamp to be released.
If you have been driving a car that isn’t taxed, the DVLA may decide to impound the vehicle. If your car has been removed, you need to contact your local police force on 101 or at your most convenient station.
