Better to POPLA or engage?

Chrisw_3

All,
Terrified of making a thread which is covered elsewhere - apologies in advance!

If a first stage appeal (i.e. with the company) is rejected, is it still worthwhile trying to engage them, or go straight to POPLA? I submitted an appeal to the Co and had a reply not 24 hours later, saying it was rejected - I was using that time to find some evidence, which I now have (it was not easily to hand!).

24 hours to accrue evidence seems quite miserly, but thems the rules...I guess...

Thanks in advance and for all the work you do.

Coupon-mad

First things first, which PPC is it, have you admitted to driving and what did the retailer/landowner say when you tried PLAN A, a complaint to them, first?

Fruitcake

If it's a BPA member, then definitely appeal to PoPLA but only if a landowner/business cancellation is not forthcoming.
If it's an IPC member then there is no viable second stage appeal which is why Plan A is even more important.

Chrisw_3

ParkWatch (‘Defense Systems’). No discussion in any way about who was driving. The landowner is (purposefully) obscured, so I need to find out who that is - I’ve been out of the country so have been a little slow on the uptake...

Chrisw_3

Really appreciate you taking the time to post. Thank you

Umkomaas

I’ve been out of the country so have been a little slow on the uptake...

What was the date of the parking event?
What was the date of issue on the first letter you received from ParkWatch?

Chrisw_3

Infraction 21/11, Letter Issued 26/11, rec’d 27/11

(thanks for reply)

Umkomaas

Your POPLA code (which I presume came in the PW rejection letter) should still have some time to run before expiry. Please go to the NEWBIES FAQ sticky, third post, which shows you how to develop a comprehensive POPLA appeal. 

In parallel, keeping plugging away with your landowner complaint, but don't miss the POPLA deadline.

Chrisw_3

Thank you for this - you're absolutely right that the POPLA still has some legs. My query has mostly been addressed, so I appreciate that. I suppose I just wanted to be sure that once PW had rejected, there was no point responding to them further, in effect to bring some more info to their attention. I guess we are passed that stage! The landowner will be found (and addressed!).

Umkomaas

there was no point responding to them further, in effect to bring some more info to their attention.

They have no interest in any further information drawn to their attention - unless in doing so you identify the driver. You've got the best you could have hoped for, your POPLA code. Use that wisely. 

Chrisw_3

All, I have put together my POPLA appeal. Is it appropriate to post it in its entirety here, or is that in some way going to be problematic? Many thanks again and hope January 2021 has begun ok!