Appealing tips

1) Who was driving? If it wasn’t you, return the penalty charge notice (PCN) to the issuing authority, along with the correct motorist’s name and address.

2) Make sure nearby road signs or lines warn against the motoring offence you are being accused of. If they are ambiguous, or even absent, this may help your case.

3) Was the ticketing officer being reasonable? Genuine mistakes or over­sights, particularly at pay-and-display bays, are sometimes forgiven at appeal.

4) Did you receive a number of PCNs in quick succession for the same offence? Local authorities will usually only chase the first fine if they are issued a matter of days apart. They go on the basis that you may have been unaware of committing an offence, and had not received the first fine until the others were already issued.

5) Was the PCN issued more than 28 days after the offence was committed? If so, you can write to the DVLA asking for confirmation that information was sent to your local authority and the date it was provided. Address it to: Non Fee Paying Enquiries Section, DVLA, Swansea SA99 1AN. Log on to www.dvla.gov.uk for more details.

6) Once you’ve gathered your evidence, write your appeal letter explaining your case clearly and simply, and keep a calm, polite tone. Remember to include any paperwork or photographs which support your claim.

7) Keep a copy of your application form and letter, and send the original by registered post as soon as possible to avoid paying an increased fine if your appeal isn’t successful.