Let's pray French parking meters don't cross the pond
(Credit: Matt Hickey)I hate parking tickets. I mean, nobody likes them, but I have a special hatred for them. And now they've given me one more reason to avoid going to France.
I often play a game of cat and mouse with the parking attendants of Seattle. I know I have two hours at a meter, but I also know they have scheduled routes, much like mail carriers. I push my luck and usually make it out just as they're approaching. Often, though, I'm too late. But these new "smart meters" in France make my stupid game impossible.
The meters not only register the amount of time you can occupy a spot, according to FoxNews.com, but they'll also alert the meter maids if you've overstayed your welcome. That's right, they snitch on you. To make matters even more insulting, they'll send you a text message telling you you've been fined. These instruments of parking monitoring are evil.
They're rolling out soon in the U.K., which means the likely next stop is here in the States. I do not like where this is headed. The ultimate goal, of course, is to raise revenue for the cities that they're installed in. Officials will naturally say they're meant to facilitate better parking for everyone, but I'm cynical enough to realize they'll be used to pay for a new bridge with my windshield.
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With more than 15 years experience testing hardware (and being obsessed with it), Crave freelance writer Matt Hickey can tell the good gadgets from the great. He also has a keen eye for future technology trends. Matt has blogged for publications including TechCrunch, CrunchGear, and most recently, Gizmodo. E-mail Matt.
Warnings as a demonstration of ability, reach, and compassion would work better on rational people who aren't a-holes.
-R
You know you have two hours (or how ever much time is allowed), take care of what you have to take care of and move on.
Revenue isn't being turned away. Thus the issuance of a ticket. The ticket will generate more revenue than an extra $.50 for 20 minutes.
But the parking spots are designed to use for a limited time, just like any other city. It's not designed for you to feed the meter. Get in, get out and let somebody else use the spot.
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by Rasores
January 9, 2009 6:44 AM PST
- Please don't worry about visiting France or England because of these Meters and take advantage of your strong currency.
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by Ryan_R
January 10, 2009 5:13 PM PST
- Yes I've seen Jeremy Clarkson and James May try hopelessly at using the mobile phone parking system :o)
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(7 Comments)To correct the article, is important for readers to know that these meters are currently used in France with the aim of preventing drivers either using disable spaces or overstaying in time limit free parking bays.
They are not used in the UK and I do not believe they will be as we have replaced most parking meters with Pay and Display and Britain is introducing payment by mobile phone.
If you want to park and you are unsure how long you will be, just do like most people and use a parking lot, Nice and easy enjoy your visit and no parking tickets.