My vehicle had broken down
Your car broke down or had a mechanical/medical emergency and could not be moved before the ticket was issued.
What the rules say
- BPA Code of Practice (mitigating circumstances)
- IPC Code of Practice
- Traffic Management Act 2004
How to appeal, step by step
- 1
Gather breakdown evidence
Find your recovery call-out or garage receipt, breakdown-cover record, or repair invoice showing the date, time and location.
- 2
Explain the emergency
Set out what happened, when, and why you could not move the vehicle or pay — a breakdown, a flat battery, a medical emergency, or being directed by staff/police.
- 3
Appeal on mitigation
Attach the recovery/repair evidence. A genuine breakdown is a recognised mitigating circumstance and a frequent cancellation reason.
Frequently asked questions
What evidence do I need for a breakdown?
Anything dated and located: a recovery firm’s call-out log, an RAC/AA record, a garage invoice, or a tow receipt. The closer the time/location matches the PCN, the stronger it is.
I broke down on a restriction — am I exempt?
A vehicle that genuinely could not be moved was not "left" in the ordinary sense. Explain the breakdown and provide evidence; councils treat this as mitigation or a contravention that did not properly occur.
Draft your appeal now
AppealIQ writes a formal, law-aware letter tailored to your situation and chosen ground. Your first letter each month is free.
Appeal this to a specific operator or council
Other reasons to appeal
AppealIQ generates draft letters to assist your appeal. It is not legal advice — always review the letter and use the official appeal channel printed on your notice. Whether a charge is a private Parking Charge Notice or a statutory council Penalty Charge Notice changes the process; pick the matching guide on the appeal hub.