Weather forecasts predict the UK will bask in a mini heat wave next week as lockdown restrictions ease.
But with such weather conditions, drivers risk breaking driving laws that many of us will not be aware of.
Moneyshake has looked at the driving laws that you probably break without even realizing during a heat wave, which could leave you with a bad fine or even points on your license.
Eben Lovatt, CEO of Moneyshake, said: “Drivers planning trips with bikes and luggage should be careful not to overload their cars or cover their license plates as they could be fined up to ‘to £ 2,500.
“While certain infractions seem unlikely to result in a fine, it is still very possible that you will be penalized for not having obeyed the rules of the road in hot weather.
“We recommend that you do not take the risk, because heat waves are for profit, not for losing your license.”
Here is the list of 8 UK Moneyshakes driving laws we all unknowingly break during a heat wave
1) Free a dog from a hot car
Maximum penalty: 10 years in prison
We all know that you should never leave your pet in a hot car. But what if you see a dog suffering in the heat wave – do you have the right to smash the window and set him free?
If you cannot justify breaking into the car, it could be considered criminal damage. The Crown Prosecution Service states that destroying or damaging the property of others can result in you up to 10 years in prison.
If an animal is in pain in a hot car, dial 999 and the police will give you advice on what to do next.
2) wear sunglasses – or not wear them
Maximum penalty: one ban, 3-9 points and an unlimited fine
Everyday sunglasses can be too dark to drive, according to the AA. Some sunglasses can also affect your eyesight because the rim of the frame blocks your peripheral vision. If your sunglasses are not suitable for driving, you could be penalized for reckless and reckless driving.
On the other hand, the highway code stipulates that you must stop if ever you are “dazzled by the sunlight”. If you don’t wear the right sunglasses that prevent you from being safely dazzled, you risk being fined for reckless driving.
3) Contactless payment at the drive-thru
Maximum penalty: a ban, 3 points and a fine of £ 1000
With more reopening behind the wheel, drivers are encouraged to use contactless payments. But if you use Google Pay and Apple Pay at the drive-thru window, you could be penalized for using your mobile phone while driving.
4) Do not turn on the AC power or open a window
Maximum penalty: 2 years in prison, 3-11 points and an unlimited fine
Rule 237 of the highway code states that you must keep your vehicle well ventilated to avoid drowsiness. Driving while tired is not an offense, but the AA says it can dramatically increase your chances of driving dangerously, which can lead to a severe penalty.
Recently, we recorded the temperature inside a car reaching 33 ° C, which is hotter than the average summer in Mexico!
5) Medicines for hay fever
Maximum penalty: 6 months in prison, 3-11 points and an unlimited fine
A 2018 study found that 60% of people with hay fever admit to taking medication before getting behind the wheel. But hay fever medications can cause drowsiness and blurred vision, which would make you unfit to drive.
A new rule in the 2015 Highway Traffic Act (Rule 96) states that you must not drive under the influence of drugs or medication.
6) Bring your bike
Maximum penalty: £ 1,000 fine
Rear-mounted bike racks are a cheap and convenient option for taking your bike on a trip. But these brackets can cover your license plates which will result in a hefty fine and your car will fail its MOT.
If you drive with a rear mounted bike rack, consider a light board to clearly display your license plate, reflectors, and lights.
7) Car overload
Maximum penalty: 3 points and a fine of £ 2,500
Do you plan to store your camping equipment in the trunk or tow your family caravan? Be careful not to overload the car.
Rule 98 of the highway code states that you should not overload your vehicle with a weight greater than the manufacturer’s recommendation. You could impose a penalty for using your vehicle in unsafe conditions.
8) Driving on wet roads after a summer downpour
Maximum penalty: 2 years in prison, a ban, 3-11 points and an unlimited fine
According to the Road Surface Treatments Association (RSTA), asphalt roads can “bleed” on the surface in hot weather after rain, reducing skid resistance and making the road more slippery.
Thanks to unpredictable UK weather, you might find yourself driving in a heat wave after a sudden downpour. Drivers should beware – if you cause an accident on a slippery road, you could be convicted of reckless driving.
More about this article: Read More
Source: www.theargus.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-04-17 23:01:00
