Philadelphia driver gets suctioned into a parking fine thanks to the Barnacle clamp

A driver in Philadelphia returned from running an errand to find her windscreen encrusted with a strange contraption.

Claiming that she was parked for just 45 seconds to pick up an online food order, she was left confused after finding her car un-drivable.

Due to the strength of these devices, named Barnacle clamps, there are strict processes to follow to release them without damaging your car.

While the baffled driver inspected the device, she managed noticed another Barnacle clamp being installed on a second unlucky car.

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The Barnacle clamp is a new method of parking enforcement

Many of us are used to seeing cars with wheel clamps if they’ve parked in a prohibited zone or haven’t paid for a ticket.

But, it turns out that there is a more modern way of enforcing rules on the road, called a Barncle clamp.

The clamp covers the whole of the windshield and cannot be removed by the driver – only electronically, before being returned to a drop-box.

According to the Barnacle website, the device uses ‘commercial-grade suction cups’ that grip onto the windshield using 1,000 pounds of force.

In order for the Barnacle clamp to be removed, the driver must call the number or visit the website to follow further steps, which may include paying, in order for the clamp to be released.

This driver didn’t expect the surprise

TikTok creator olivialangston7 was only expecting to pay for a cheesesteak after she parked for ’45 seconds’, but when she came back to her car, she was slapped with the Barnacle clamp surprise.

In a follow-up video, she captured another clamp being put onto a car, but clarified that there were signs of warning around.

“I just went with it, there was a sign with a warning that this would happen and I didn’t see it until she pointed it out it also happened so fast!!! I should’ve known parking in the city shouldn’t be so easy lol,” the creator commented.

Other social media users also weighed in on the situation.

@olivialangston7

Parked in Philly for no more than 45 seconds to grab a cheesesteak #philly #parkingticket

♬ original sound – Liv

“Been seeing this a lot in that parking lot,” added one user.

“It’s actually still cheaper to get the glass replaced and they come to you,” commented another.

Authorities did look to regulate the use of the Barnacles in the state, and when it comes to enforcing them, areas should be clearly signed for all to see, so no nasty surprises occur for drivers.

We should also note here that the action of private enforcement is legal in the state, but rules have to be followed.

Reportedly, the company name displayed on the Barnacle ‘Bob’s Sponges’ is separate from the parking authorities in Philadelphia, according to Motor 1.

So, it seems that the driver must follow the steps and pay to get rid of the bright yellow cover on her car to make sure her vehicle stays in one piece.

It’s not all bad, though, as she said the enforcer managed to reduce her fine by $50.

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