Experts say enforcement is getting stricter and you could face tough penaltiesNeil Shaw Assistant Editor (Money and Lifestyle)09:37, 29 May 2026Drivers across the UK are being warned that a habit many motorists do without thinking could leave them facing fines of up to £1,000, even if they are parked directly outside their own home. Experts are urging motorists to familiarise themselves with Highway Code Rule 248, which states that drivers “must not” park on a road at night facing against the direction of traffic flow unless they are parked in a recognised parking space.‌The rule catches out thousands of drivers because many wrongly assume parking direction only matters while driving, not once the car has been left stationary. Under the Highway Code, parking the wrong way at night is considered a safety risk because a vehicle’s rear reflectors are designed to reflect the headlights of approaching traffic. When a car is facing the wrong direction, those reflectors are no longer visible to oncoming drivers, making the vehicle significantly harder to spot in darker conditions.‌The RAC warns that although the Highway Code itself is not legislation, many rules within it are backed by law, meaning motorists can still be prosecuted for failing to comply. Depending on the circumstances, drivers can face financial penalties, points on their licence and, in more serious cases, court action.‌Alongside Rule 248, motorists are also reminded that parking lights must be used when leaving a vehicle on roads with a speed limit above 30mph overnight. Mo Rafique, Vehicle Security Expert at Motor Guards UK said many drivers are completely unaware they could be risking such a large fine over something they see as harmless.“Most people genuinely believe if they’re parked legally and not blocking anyone, they’ve done nothing wrong. That’s why this catches so many drivers out. You could pull up outside your own house exactly as you do every day and still end up with a hefty fine simply because your car is facing the wrong direction after dark."‌“When people hear the figure can reach £1,000, they’re usually stunned. It sounds excessive for something that feels minor, but the rule exists because visibility at night matters far more than many drivers realise.”He added that enforcement around smaller Highway Code offences has become stricter in recent years.‌“With more patrols, cameras and public reporting now in use, motorists are far more likely to be penalised for things that may previously have gone unnoticed. The safest thing drivers can do is take the extra minute to turn the car around properly before leaving it overnight. It’s a simple step that could save someone a very expensive surprise.”According to Highway Code guidance, motorists parking on the roadside should also:• Park close to the kerb • Switch off headlights and fog lights before leaving the vehicle • Apply the handbrake fully • Check carefully for cyclists or other traffic before opening doors • Avoid parking too close to vehicles displaying a Blue Badge • Keep valuables out of sight and lock the vehicleArticle continues belowOn roads with speed limits above 30mph, drivers are also legally required to leave parking lights on overnight. Motorists can read the full guidance under Highway Code Rules 248 to 252 on the GOV.UK website.