Driving rules you may not know!
Here’s a list of common driving habits that might seem harmless but could actually land you in trouble. From warning other drivers about speed cameras to hanging air fresheners that obstruct your view, these actions can lead to hefty fines or penalty points. It's important to be aware of the rules to keep both yourself and other road users safe, as well as to avoid unnecessary penalties. Here's what you need to know!
1. Letting Your Dog Stick Its Head Out the Window:
No direct law forbids it, but it’s classed as a distraction under Highway Code Rule 57. Fines can reach £1,000, rising to £5,000 if an accident occurs, plus 9 penalty points. It may be an adorable sight to see a dog with its head out of a moving car, enjoying the breeze but your pets must be properly restrained while traveling to prevent distractions and potential injuries.
2. No Excessively Loud Music While Driving
Listening to music while driving is enjoyable, but turning up the volume too high can be dangerous. Rule 148 of the Highway Code advises against loud music as it can prevent drivers from hearing important sounds like sirens.
3. Sleeping in Your Car While Drunk Is Illegal
If you’ve had too much to drink, sleeping in your car might seem like a responsible decision. However, the Road Traffic Act 1988 (Section 5) makes it illegal to be "in charge" of a vehicle while over the alcohol limit. This means that even if you're not driving, you could still be penalised if there's a possibility you might attempt to drive.
4. Swearing or Making Rude Gestures Can Be Considered Disorderly Conduct
Losing your temper on the road could lead to more than just a bad day. Under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, making obscene gestures or shouting expletives at other drivers can be classified as ‘disorderly conduct,’ which may result in fines.
5. Driving Too Slowly Can Get You Pulled Over
While speeding is a common concern, driving too slowly can also be problematic. If your cautious driving is deemed to be causing a hazard to others, the police may classify it as ‘careless driving’ under the Road Traffic Act 1988.
6. Your Number Plate Must Be Clean and Visible
Whether due to off-roading or neglect, a dirty number plate could land you a fine. According to the Road Vehicles (Display of Registration Marks) Regulations 2001, your registration plate must always be clearly visible.
7. Alerting other drivers about speed cameras
While many drivers think they're helping others by flashing their headlights to warn about speed cameras, this actually violates the Highway Code. According to Rule 110, headlights should only be flashed to signal your presence to other road users, not to communicate any other message or to intimidate others.
8. Hanging an air freshener that obstructs your view
According to the Road Vehicles Regulations 1986, drivers must have an unobstructed view of the road and traffic ahead. Hanging an air freshener from your rear-view mirror can block your vision, resulting in a hefty fine and potentially causing your car to fail its MOT. It might be a good idea to consider other options.
9. Purposefully Splashing Pedestrians Can Lead to Fines
Driving through puddles and splashing pedestrians is more than just inconsiderate - it’s an offense. Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 classifies this as careless and inconsiderate driving, potentially resulting in fines and penalty points on your license.
10. Asking for Change for a Parking Meter Is Against the Law
If you find yourself short on change for a parking meter, think twice before asking a stranger. Under the Vagrancy Act 1824, begging for money in any form is illegal, including for parking.