Disabled drivers in the UK have been warned their blue parking badges might not be recognised in many EU destinations popular for British driving holidays. Negotiations with 11 countries including France, Spain, Portugal and Italy about the issue are still ongoing.
There are millions of people in the UK who hold a blue badge which give exemption from some parking restrictions and access to designated parking spaces. They were recognised across the EU until Brexit and the AA has issued a warning over the risk for disabled motorists heading abroad, reports BirminghamLive.
Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, said: "To keep blue badge users in limbo is simply unacceptable. Blue badges are issued because of specific health reasons, and to not have their status confirmed two years down the line is simply outrageous.
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"Rather than take a chance, we would encourage blue badge users to use drop-off and collection zones where possible while the car is parked in a non-disabled bay. While problematic, it reduces the risk of a vehicle being given a ticket or towed away.
"While the Government website asks blue badge users to ask the consulates for further advice on if their blue badge would be accepted, most could not provide any assurances or advice to the AA.
"Both the UK Government and the 11 European nations yet to ratify the status of UK-issued blue badges need to resolve the matter urgently and provide clarity for all concerned."
A Department for Transport spokesperson said: "Negotiations on Blue Badge recognition are ongoing between the UK and individual EU states, and motorists should check our guidance to find out where the Blue Badge is recognised in the EU."
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