Experts have warned UK motorists over a viral TikTok trend that could land drivers major fines or prison time if caught.
The life hack, which has gained over 20,000 views via the short-form video platform, has received criticism from experts after it was claimed this advice could land drivers jail time.
As people look to make savings and avoid the dreaded parking charges, many are looking for new ways to leave their cars unattended without spending a dime.
However, the parking space locator app, Your Parking Spaces warned this method could see drivers hit with expensive fines, putting them even more out of pocket, or see them thrown in jail.
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The viral TikTok parking hack that could land drivers jail time
The driving hack involves drivers pretending that their vehicle is broken down and waiting for a recovery in order to avoid parking charges.
Your Parking Space CEO, Harrison Wood warned motorists against following the trend, saying: "This viral hack might look seamless on video, and despite plenty of commenters feeling that if you're willing to fight your corner you may be able to get out of a ticket; if you follow this hack you will still get a ticket and have to pay unless you can prove (with receipts) that your car was waiting for either repairs or vehicle collection.
"Cameras can also be used to provide evidence of the condition of your car, in addition to your claims needing to be in line with what the parking officer has said about your case."
She added that this parking tariff dodge could end up being more expensive than a simple ticket and could potentially see seven years in prison for fraud.
She said: "We strongly advise against copying this hack as it leaves your vehicle in a very vulnerable position.
"Leaving your car hood open when you are away from your vehicle will only lead to water damage or in other cases, harmful intrusion and temptation for thieves. That means you could be left seriously out of pocket if you’re your car is damaged and you have no evidence of how the damage occurred.
Paying for parking may feel like an inconvenience at the time, but guaranteeing the safety of your car will cause you a lot less problems in the long run as opposed to following risky TikTok trends.”
To find out more about Your Parking Space, please visit the Your Parking Space website.
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