How to Deal with a Car Blocking Your Driveway: A Comprehensive Guide

Dealing with a car blocking your driveway can be frustrating and stressful, but understanding your rights and the proper steps to take can help alleviate the situation.

Understanding the Scenario

If you find yourself in a situation where a car is blocking your driveway, it's crucial to first determine where you are. The next steps will depend on whether the car is on private property or a public street.

Steps for Private Property

If the car is on private property, speak to the property owner or occupant. Request that they remove their vehicle. If the property owner is unresponsive, contact a wrecker service to have the car impounded.

Steps for Public Streets

If the car is blocking your driveway and is parked on a public street, contact the police. They can take appropriate action to have the vehicle moved or ticketed.

Legal Considerations

Contact your local law enforcement to get information on local regulations regarding blocked driveways. You may be able to have the car ticketed, which makes it easier to get it towed. Note that blocking your own driveway at the street is illegal, except in the case of an active emergency responder (such as police, fire, or ambulance).

What to Do if the Owner Refuses to Move the Car

Do not mention the police to the car owner. Walk away to a safe location and call the police. If you have had previous issues with the vehicle or the neighbor, report it to the police for them to handle.

Preventative Measures

If you have a bad history with the vehicle or the neighbor, call the police directly. Inform them about the past issues, and let them decide if the vehicle should be towed.

Ask Nice or Call Professional Help

Try to ask the vehicle owner to move their car. They may be unaware of the situation. If they refuse to move the car, call a tow truck. Have a friend with a 4WD vehicle push the car out of your driveway if possible. If time and circumstances permit, leave a polite note on the car's windshield to inform them of the situation. Include that if it happens again, it will be towed.

Local Regulations and Safety

Vehicles in Australia must be at least 1 meter from the entrance of your driveway. Proper spacing ensures safety when entering or exiting your property.

Recently, someone parked very close to our driveway, and we were only able to exit because of other vehicles parked nearby. Reversing out now is the safest option, as reversing in is more difficult.

Conclusion

Handling a situation where a car is blocking your driveway is a common issue, but by taking the appropriate steps, you can resolve the situation quickly and effectively. Whether you need to speak to the owner, call the police, or hire a towing service, knowing the legal framework and local regulations can make the process smoother and ensure your safety.