Motorists have been urged to avoid making one surprisingly common parking mistake that could see them face eye-watering fines.

Whether they are heading to a holiday attraction with loved ones or simply visiting the local supermarket, finding a parking space that is wide enough can be a frustrating experience.

However, Graham Conway, Managing Director of Select Car Leasing, warned that drivers must make sure their vehicle is completely within the lines of the pay to avoid a penalty charge notice (PCN).

He explained: "More and more private and public car parks are adopting a zero tolerance approach to parking within the white lines of designated bays.

"Even minor indiscretions, when a wheel is just a fraction over the line, are being punished with penalty charge notice (PCN) of up to £100, depending on the location."

With car parks being one of the most common locations for dents and scrapes, many drivers like to take measures that can keep their pride and joy at a safe distance from other vehicles.

Whilst tight parking spaces are an issue in many parts of the country, with many of the latest SUVs leaving very little wiggle room, motorists should never park across multiple bays to give themself a larger gap on either side.

Doing so is almost always a breach of the private parking company's restrictions and will result in a PCN of up to £100 being issued.

Instead, Graham suggested that drivers looking to keep their car safe look for the quietest location of the car park and make sure they are well within the lines.

He advised: "It’s easy to understand why someone might park across two bays, particularly if they’ve got a high-value vehicle they want to protect at all costs. But the behaviour is almost universally seen as inconsiderate and selfish, particularly if car parking spaces are at a premium at that particular location.

"My advice would be to choose the quietest possible spot in the car park, even if it means a slightly longer walk to get to where you need to be, and to stick within the white lines.