Driving laws change often so it can be hard to keep up, especially if you passed your test a while ago.
Here’s a quick list of what to do when driving to stay on the right side of the law and avoid a fine or penalty points.
Keep your dog inside the car
While your four-legged friend may love sticking their head out of the window, it could lead to a fine. The law says dogs should be ‘suitably restrained’ when travelling in a car. This is to avoid distraction or injury. If not, there’s a maximum fine of £5,000 and up to nine points on your licence.
Give your number plates a wash
f the police cannot read your number plates, you could be fined up to £1,000. So before you drive, make sure they are clean and easy to see.
Turn down the volume
A sing-along in the car is great fun, but playing music too loud can be risky. Rule 148 of the Highway Code states distractions such as loud music could drown out other important sounds, such as sirens or distressed passengers in rear seats.
Watch your language
We may not like to admit it, but many of us experience road rage. Keep your cool because swearing or making rude gestures could be classed as ‘disorderly conduct’ under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. That means a fine and points on your licence.
Do not idle unnecessarily
Leaving your engine running while parked is not just bad for the planet, it could also land you a fine. If you’re stationary, and not in traffic, switch off or risk a £20 penalty, which rises in London.
Steer clear of puddle trouble
Splashed a pedestrian? If it looks deliberate, or you have not tried to avoid it, you could be fined between £100 and £5,000 and get three penalty points.
Hands off your phone
In March 2022, the law changed and ‘using a device’ has expanded to include, illuminating the screen, unlocking the device, and checking notifications while driving. However, using a phone to make an emergency call is allowed.
Sleeping in your car when over the limit
Even if you’re parked with the engine off, you could still be charged with being ‘drunk in charge’ of a vehicle. If caught, you’re looking at up to 10 penalty points and a big fine.
Flashing your headlights as a warning
Trying to help fellow drivers avoid a speed camera? Be careful because flashing your headlights to warn others could be seen as ‘obstructing an officer’s duty,’ with fines ranging from £30 to £1,000.
Clear your car of snow
Snow and ice can fall off a car roof and obstruct your own view and other drivers’. Failing to remove it from your car roof can result in a cold £60 fine and three penalty points, so make sure you leave enough time to clear the whole car, not just your windscreen.
To brush up on the Highway Code, visit the Government website.
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