Jeremy Clarkson and James May, presenters of Top Gear, have landed in hot water once more… this time for utilizing disabled parking spaces while filming the popular show.
In a segment from the latest series aired on Channel 9, the duo tested electric vehicles by taking a drive to Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire, where they parked in a car lot to discuss the advantages of the cars.
Instead of choosing regular parking spots, they opted for areas designated for disabled individuals, igniting backlash from disability advocacy groups who claimed this behavior was ‘typical’ of Clarkson.
To exacerbate the situation, right after the electric car segment, Richard Hammond encountered a group of injured soldiers who had sustained severe injuries in Afghanistan.
The soldiers, some of whom had lost three limbs, were seen enjoying light-hearted moments with Hammond while participating in cross-country racing with 4×4 vehicles as they geared up for the challenging Dakar Rally.
During the feature on electric cars, Clarkson, driving a $50,000 Nissan Leaf, along with May in a $50,000 Peugeot iOn, engaged in a conversation about the advantages of non-fossil fuel vehicles, questioning ‘should you buy an electric car?’
After they parked in the disabled spaces, the duo joked and laughed about the price of the vehicles and their electric engines, which can reach impressive speeds of up to 90mph.
They also made light of the storage capacity and mentioned that electric cars required specially designed windscreen wipers that produced minimal noise.
However, it was when they exited their cars… with Clarkson and May even standing atop a disabled parking marking… that shocked viewers recognized their irresponsible parking decision.
Jim Rawlings from Disabled Motoring UK commented that he believed Clarkson ‘wouldn’t have thought twice’ about occupying a disabled space.
He stated, ‘I’m certain that Jeremy Clarkson wasn’t considering that he was parked in a disabled area.’
‘The misuse of disabled parking by non-disabled individuals is widespread, and when figures like Clarkson and May engage in this behavior, it leads other drivers to believe it’s acceptable to park wherever they please.’
‘Individuals who clearly do not have disabilities, like Clarkson and May, evidently didn’t care that someone with a disability might have needed those spots.’
‘I doubt Jeremy Clarkson would feel any remorse about utilizing a disabled space – it showcases a complete lack of empathy and consideration.’
Peter Lyne from the Disabled Motorists Foundation expressed his frustration, stating that witnessing non-disabled people in disabled bays was ‘incredibly irritating.’
He remarked, ‘It’s a significant issue and one that is exacerbated by the likes of Jeremy Clarkson and James May.’
Viewer Adam Sullivan, 32, shared his disgust, saying, ‘I was appalled to see them park in a disabled bay. They were even casually standing on the disabled markings without any awareness.’
‘Their nonchalance regarding the issue is offensive, and they should be held accountable… along with the entire production team – for participating in actions that ultimately promote the idea that parking in disabled spaces is acceptable.’
Prior to filming, both presenters conveyed their strong reservations about using the disabled bays, aware of the disrespectful image it might project.
They only conceded when we reassured them that the owner had given permission for the parking, and that the disabled markings would not be shown during the broadcast.
This was our oversight, not theirs, and we sincerely apologize to all the viewers we have upset as a result.’
The controversy arises just eight months after the trio faced backlash for making derogatory remarks about Mexicans.
Hammond commented that Mexican automobiles embodied national traits, stating they were ‘lazy, feckless, flatulent’.
James characterized Mexican cuisine as ‘akin to sickness blended with cheese,’ while Jeremy conjectured they wouldn’t receive any grievances regarding the episode because ‘at the Mexican embassy, the ambassador would likely be lounging with a remote control like this (snores).’
by Robbo Green
