Removing a Wheel Clamp (without the key)

[ahdguy]

Just wondering, mate called as he's been clamped (again). However the heavies who turned up as he got back to the car told him they won't take the clamp off until he pays, (fair-ish cop).
However, they only take cash "or a credit card in person at their office". Unfortunatley he only has loose change and a credit card on him so has a long walk to their office....

What happens should someone one turn up and "remove" the clamp (angle grinder)? and legality of it? being as the car is on private property?

[zcacogp]

I think that doing that would constitute criminal damage to the wheelclamp, and land your mate in hot water.

However, if you can remove it without damaging it, all they can do is try and fine you for parking. Which is several times harder if they haven't got your car to hold to ransom ...

I have heard of people cutting their tyres apart to allow them to get the clamp off, reasoning that the cost of a tyre is less than the cost of a parking fine.


Oli.

[lordlee]

Just pay and be done. Any messing with the clamp is criminal damage and your mate will get arrested - not nice but that is the law.

[Meeja]

You need the services of this man

If you can find him......

[eldudereno]

How much is the fine then?

I would be tempted to cut my tyre off I must admit.

[ahdguy]

Well I wasn't considering leaving the clamp behind.... Surely lack of eveidence might be difficult to prove criminal damage (ok well theft maybe).

[Zad]

Surely it is not criminal damage if you state beforehand that you will make good any damage at your cost?

Try calling a locksmith. It's shocking how quickly a smith can crack a lock when they have the right tools.

[mulletmark]

I've heard that deflating the tyre will allow you to drive out of a wheel clamp. Not done it myself though - massive potential for a clamped car AND a flat tyre

[flattotheboards]

Is the car in a busy area? if not when its dark if there is nobody around try going and cutting it off.

[SplatSpeed]

angle grinder 30 quid

metal cutting disk 3 quid

generator 100 quid

look on clampers face priceless

[smele]

Most clamps on private car parks have chain that will go through the suspension arm, so driving out with a flat tyre is not possible. Last time I was with a friend and he got clamped we took it off ourselves. Small tool kit in the back of the car dropped the suspension leg out wiggled the control arm off, move clamp out the way, drive off.

Leave the clamp, it's not yours so don't take it. They may well send you nasty letters in the post, but it's not a criminal offence.

Took is about 10mins, probably quicker than waiting for the man.

[Meeja]

mulletmark said:

I've heard that deflating the tyre will allow you to drive out of a wheel clamp. Not done it myself though - massive potential for a clamped car AND a flat tyre

I think that only works on some wheel types/sizes.

I remember a feature on the TV about that years ago. If you have wheel trims, you are stumped, as you can't get to the wheel nuts, even with a flat tyre.

[kambites]

I would suggest laughing at your friend. Lots.

[bimsb6]

lordlee said:

Just pay and be done. Any messing with the clamp is criminal damage and your mate will get arrested - not nice but that is the law.

not if its an illegal clamp in the first place ! check signage and permit to clamp .

[redgriff500]

My Director had one cut off...

They sent him letters which he ignored.

To take you to court they'd have to prove you did it.

Hard to do especially without any evidence.

[richyb]

Would it have to be an angle grinder? I've seen bolt cutters that can cut 15mm steel rods. Would that not do the trick on the chain then you can dispose of the offending clamp and deny all knowledge.

[mattiselvis]

richyb said:

Would it have to be an angle grinder? I've seen bolt cutters that can cut 15mm steel rods. Would that not do the trick on the chain then you can dispose of the offending clamp and deny all knowledge.

Bolt cutters work just nicely.

[richyb]

How much is their 'fee'? I've seen £120 on those signs before. I've rather spend £50 on bolt cutters and take a chance myself.

[uk_vette]

ahdguy said:

Well I wasn't considering leaving the clamp behind.... Surely lack of eveidence might be difficult to prove criminal damage (ok well theft maybe).

,
,
Cut the lock, leave the clamp intact,
take the clamp with you.
24 Volt DeWalt battery grinder with a 2mm metal disc cutter will see the lock of in less than 20 seconds.
Use it then to safe guard you caravan !

[_ian_]

Could you buy your own clamp and then just park anywhere and stick it on?