How to avoid PCNs | Advice for PCO drivers

Getting a PCN (Penalty Charge Notice) can turn a profitable shift into a frustrating one. Whether you're a private hire driver, courier, or just navigating the city, understanding road rules and hot zones can save you time and money. Here's a quick but essential guide to help you steer clear of fines.

🚫 Road Markings: Know Where You Can and Can’t Stop

Zig-Zag Lines: Never stop on zig-zag lines – they’re there for visibility near pedestrian crossings, and enforcement is strict.

Red Lines:

• Single/Double Red Lines: You can stop if your passenger is ready to get in immediately. No waiting.

• Thick Red Lines (often part of red route bus lanes): No stopping allowed at all.

Cycle Lanes:

• Solid White Line: Don’t enter these lanes – they’re fully restricted.

• Dashed Line: You can enter briefly to pick up passengers if safe to do so.

🪧 Signs and Barriers: Always Check Before You Stop

• Look for directional arrows at barriers – always follow the indicated route.

• Pay attention to all posted signs. They’ll tell you if you’re allowed to park, when restrictions apply, and whether a ticket or permit is needed.

🚗 Parking: Avoid the Common Pitfalls

• Double yellow lines and red routes are almost always off-limits for parking.

• Always check the time restrictions on signage – some bays are only restricted during peak hours.

• If you need to park, ensure you’ve paid if required and clearly displayed your ticket or used the app.

🎥 Camera Zones: Hotspots for PCNs

Bus Lanes: You’re allowed to briefly enter a bus lane to pick up a passenger – but only if they’re ready to jump in immediately.

School Zones: Avoid stopping in these areas during the restricted hours listed on the signs.

Restricted Movements: Watch out for No U-turn, No Entry, and One-way signs. These are often camera-enforced.

💸 Congestion & Toll Zones

• Ensure your Congestion Charge and Dartford Tunnel accounts are active and topped up.

• Keep a reminder to pay any tolls or daily charges to avoid automatic fines.

💡 Smart Driving Tips from the Road

• Azim’s Tip: If it’s not safe to stop where your passenger requested, call them and ask them to walk to a legal, safe location.

• Paul’s Tip: Use your GPS or map app to mark safe stopping zones you find during your shift.

• Solomon’s Tip: Keep all receipts for payments (parking, tolls, etc.) in case you need to dispute a PCN.

📍 PCN Hotspots by Area

Here are some commonly enforced streets where you need to be extra cautious:

North London:

• Adelaide Road NW3 – Bus stop camera

• Liverpool Road N1 – Box junction

• Riversdale Road N16 – Width restriction gate

East London:

• Fenchurch Street EC3 – Double yellow lines

• Hackney Road – Loading bay enforcement

• Bank Junction – Bus-only 7am–7pm weekdays

South London:

• Clapham High Street – Zig-zag enforcement

• New Cross Road – Box junction

• Clapham Park Road – Bus lane enforcement

West London:

• Uxbridge Road W12 – Yellow box at Shepherd’s Bush

• Hilton Hotel Olympia – Stopping restrictions

• Wandsworth Bridge Road – Box junction enforcement

Staying alert and informed is the best way to keep your record clean and your earnings intact. Follow these tips and avoid the headache of unnecessary PCNs.