By Brendan Rees
A furious motorist is the latest parking fine victim to be caught out by a “confusing” sign along Kangan Drive in Berwick.
Jason Bell was slapped with a $165 fine after parking his car in a no-stopping area on Thursday 5 September.
He is one of many car owners who have been caught out by the parking fiasco.
Mr Bell, who works at the nearby Nossal high School, was left seething to discover the fine after visiting Chisholm Institute.
“First of all, the multi signed signs post along Kangan drive are very confusing for the general motorist trying to do the right thing by abiding by the law,” he said.
“Also, where does Casey council get off by charging $165 for a parking fine?”
According to Mr Bell, there was “three lots of different information on the one signage post.”
“I’m shocked for two reasons – one is the amount and number two: how can you hang the three signs which all contradict themselves virtually on one post?”
As it stands, the ‘no stopping’ restrictions operate from 7.30am – 9.30am and 2.30pm – 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. During other hours of the day, parking is restricted to two hours.
“I’m up that road every day of week and to me to have that much trouble; what’s it like for an elderly person?” Mr Bell said.
“To cop $165 …it’s just very, very confusing.”
Mr Bell said he would’ve been happy to pay a $3 fee for a parking spot nearby – but thought he had parked legally at the time.
The parking signs, which came into effect in July 2017, have drawn the ire of commuters who say the signs are “deceiving” and “confusing” with many residents venting their frustration to Star News.
Motorists protested at a Casey Council meeting in January by holding signs in the public gallery saying: “Change the signs,” “Kangan Drive make it fair,” and “Misleading and unfair.”
In response, council introduced in what was described as ‘clearer’ parking signs displaying a no standing zone.
