what should you do when you park at night on a road that has a 40 mph speed limit

Leave your parking (side) lights switched on when you park at night on a road with a 40 mph speed limit, and make sure you are parked in the direction of traffic and in a safe, visible position.

Key rule

• On roads with speed limits over 30 mph (like 40 mph), vehicles must display parking lights when parked at night.

• You must not park facing against the direction of traffic unless in a marked parking space.

Safe positioning

• Park as close to the kerb as you safely can so you are not obstructing the traffic lane.

• Avoid parking near junctions, bends, crossings or other places where your vehicle might surprise approaching drivers.

Simple takeaway

• At night + 40 mph road = leave parking lights/sidelights on, park with the traffic flow, and choose a safe, visible spot away from junctions and bends.