Motorway service stations exist primarily as a safe haven for motorists who may need to make use of maintenance services, fuel supplies – or who simply need a place to have a coffee and a rest.

However, as some motorists have found, those employed to enforce the 'fair use' of motorway service stations can sometimes be a little overzealous. One key problem being when a driver is charged a parking or overstay penalty after his or her car has broken down.

There is of course very little one can do in the case of a flat tyre or a mechanical problem – aside of course from contacting one's breakdown repair insurance provider. But in the time it takes to address such a problem, some motorists are penalised.

What can you do if you feel you've been treated unfairly?

While being given a parking ticket or overstay penalty by a motorway service station may seem a little harsh (not least because a simple snack and a coffee can mean you've already been relieved of nearly £10), it does happen. You may be able to have the penalty rescinded by phoning, emailing or writing to the service station and explaining your situation, as well as stating that you believe you were unfairly treated.

If that doesn't work, you could contact your MP and detail your grievance to them.

After all, motorway service stations are there primarily to make driving safer.

Has this happened to you?

Feel free to tell us about any similar experiences in the comments section below.