Doctor told by council to prove he saved woman’s life to avoid parking ticket

A surgeon says he believes a council is being “inconsiderate” after he was told he must prove he saved a woman’s life to avoid paying a parking ticket. Dr Nick Lagattolla received a £50 parking fine while spending three hours treating a woman having a cardiac arrest. 

The vascular and endocrine surgeon saw the lady as he was returning to his car from a bank in Dorchester, Dorset, on September 15. He then brought the collapsed woman into the bank and “essentially saved her life”. However, for the fine to be dropped, Dorset Council has reportedly told Dr Lagattolla he must provide evidence he helped her.

Dr Lagattolla said he expected the fine would be cancelled after explaining the situation. 

However, he said the council “basically responded saying that we don’t believe you”.

Speaking to The Telegraph, Dr Lagattolla said that he always buys a ticket and “frankly it’s annoying and aggravating that I’m still being charged” despite helping the woman.

He said that he’s wrongly thought the matter would be dropped after complaining to them.

The doctor added: “It strikes me that the council are being inconsiderate and inappropriate and it feels like there is no goodwill from them, given these rather unique circumstances.”

A Dorset Council spokesman said: “In line with our standard process, we’ve requested documentary proof directly from the individual.

“We always include details on how to make payment, and we require supporting evidence for all appeals because this is a legal process.

“Clear documentation is essential to ensure fairness, transparency, and compliance.”