An urgent warning has been given to disabled drivers ahead of summer holidays. It comes as UK drivers have been warned that their blue badges may not be valid whilst travelling in Europe.
The rules have now changed due to Brexit as ministers are still negotiating the status of blue badges with 11 countries. UK blue badges were recognised across all EU states but this has now changed.
Manchester Evening News reports that disabled drivers could use their badges in France, Italy, Spain, Greece and Portugal. This rule stopped on December 21, 2020 as the EU transition period ended.
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The countries are still "undecided" on whether they can accept blue badges or not, according to the UK government website. The AA has warned that disabled drivers may catch a parking fine if they use their permits in certain EU countries, which it has criticised as "simply unacceptable".
The government has informed blue badge-holders that they should "check with the embassy of the country you are travelling to for the latest developments". 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. 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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