Drivers have been left furious after discovering that some parking apps have resulted in unexpected penalty charges, which have reignited calls to bring back cash payments.

Recent findings revealed that 47 per cent of UK motorists believe they have received incorrect or accidental fines while using parking applications.

The problem appears to be widespread, with a quarter of affected motorists reporting multiple instances of unfair penalties, with 22 per cent indicating they have encountered this issue once.

Research conducted by Uswitch found that only six per cent of motorists acknowledged receiving justified penalties through using the app.

The petition called on Labour to mandate all car parks to have a cash payment option

Experts revealed that there has been an overwhelming number of fines handed out to drivers who have used the apps to streamline their parking experience rather than complicate it.

This has reignited calls for cash parking over apps, with growing petitions urging the Government to bring back the previous payment portals.

The petition, which runs until September 26, urged Labour to make it a legal requirement for all car parks to provide a physical payment machine for cash and/or card, which could offer a fairer chance to drivers to avoid getting penalties.

The petition detailed: "Many car parks now rely on apps or QR codes, which can make payment difficult for those without smartphones, in poor signal areas, or unfamiliar with digital payments. I think QR codes also pose a fraud risk.

Drivers have faced growing tech problems when using payment parking apps

"Previously, only physical machines were available. I do not think digital should replace accessible payment methods. This change could ensure fairness, accessibility, and consumer protection. It could prevent operators from imposing fines without a proper payment infrastructure."

Technical problems were found to be a huge problem for drivers, as the digital reliance risks leaving motorists stranded when they need them most.

Nearly three in 10 users were found to experience application failures or connectivity issues, while 27 per cent struggle with poorly designed user interfaces. Payment processing presents another significant challenge, with 16 per cent of motorists reporting transactions that fail to register properly.

The requirement to download and maintain numerous applications frustrates more than a third of users. Motorists must remember which platform operates at each location, with nearly one in five forgetting the correct application for their chosen car park.

Nearly one in five motorists encounter unexpected administrative or service charges that were not clearly disclosed upfront. Remembering which platform corresponds to each parking location creates additional complications.

To help drivers avoid penalties from inconsistent parking apps, the British Parking Association revealed earlier this year that it would develop a unified solution through its National Parking Platform, collaborating with major operators including RingGo, JustPark and PayByPhone.

This system will enable motorists to pay across all participating car parks using their preferred application. Reports found that 72 per cent of motorists anticipate the platform will address at least some current frustrations. Specifically, 21 per cent believed it would resolve most existing problems, while 51 per cent expect partial improvements.

However, scepticism remains amongst some users, with 14 per cent remaining uncertain about its potential impact and a further nine per cent doubting it will make significant improvements, while three per cent fear it could worsen the situation.

Private parking firms have come under fire for fining drivers for failing to pay within the first five minutes | GETTY

When surveyed about essential features for the forthcoming national platform, half of motorists prioritised transparent pricing without concealed administrative charges.

Timely notifications before parking expiry ranked highly for 33 per cent of respondents, matching the proportion who valued clear communication of local restrictions and time limitations.

Real-time parking space availability attracted support from 31 per cent of users, while nearly a quarter appreciated single-touch payment options and remote time extensions.

Less popular features included map displays of nearby facilities at 14 per cent and integrated customer support at 10 per cent. Felicity Ferguson from Uswitch recommended motorists verify location codes carefully, utilise reminder alerts, and download required applications before travelling.