Easy To Overlook Driving Laws That Could See You Fined
The UK has some of the safest roads in the world, thanks to fairly tough rules. But some laws are easy to overlook…
Using Your Phone at a Drive-Thru
Many of us regularly make payments using our mobile phones. And it’s not hard to see why – it’s quick and convenient. However, if you use them in this way in your car you could end up being fined. Whilst it’s not illegal to use a phone to make a payment from your car in of itself, it is if the car’s engine is left running; otherwise, it’s classed as using a phone dangerously whilst ‘driving’ – even if you’re stationary.
Wearing the Wrong Footwear
Wearing inappropriate footwear whilst behind the wheel could see you running afoul of driving laws. Whilst you’re unlikely to be pulled over for simply wearing flip flops, things could be different if you end up in a collision. This is because some footwear is considered inappropriate for driving, possibly leading to less control over a vehicle. In which case, charges of negligent driving could be applied.
Flashing your Headlights
When police set up mobile speed camera locations, some drivers take it upon themselves to warn other road-users of the ‘danger’. They do this by flashing their headlights at approaching vehicles. Whilst this could win you the hearts and minds of your fellow drivers, it could also see you landed with a £1,000 fine. Why? Because it potentially falls under the offence of “obstructing a constable in the execution of his/her duty”.
Using An Unfixed Phone as a Sat Nav
Most mobile phones are perfectly capable of standing in as a sat nav. So, it’s not surprising that many of us use them in this fashion instead of forking out on, sometimes expensive, in-car tech. However, they need to be properly mounted and secured if you want to avoid breaking any driving laws. Otherwise, it’s classed as dangerously use a phone whilst driving – leading to six penalty points and a £200 fine.
Dirty Number Plates
With the UK’s notoriously unreliable weather, it’s not uncommon for vehicles to be covered in mud and grime. Aesthetically, this can be frustrating. However, if the dirt manages to obscure your car’s number plate you could find yourself on the wrong side of the law. This is because your vehicle needs to be identifiable at all times when on public roads. Whilst you’d likely be let off with a warning the first time around, repeat offences will lead to fines.
Not Removing Snow from Your Car’s Roof
In the winter, the last thing anyone wants to do it spend lengthy periods of time defrosting a car. However, if you don’t do it properly you could find yourself talking to a police officer. Not only do windscreens and mirrors need to be clear of ice and snow, so does your car’s roof. After all, snow dislodge whilst a vehicle is moving – presenting a potential danger to other road-users. So, make sure your car is completely free of snow and ice before setting out on your journey.
A Million Londoners Could Switch To Car Clubs – https://autoserveclub.co.uk/blog/a-million-londoners-could-switch-to-car-clubs/
Most British Drivers Believe They’d Pass The Driving Test Today – https://autoserve.co.uk/motoring-news/most-british-drivers-believe-theyd-pass-the-driving-test-today/
