After a month of rain, Brits look set to take advantage of warmer temperatures this bank holiday weekend.
Experts predict warmer temperatures are on the way, ending the scorching conditions across the UK throughout May.
But with such weather conditions, drivers risk breaking driving laws that many of us don’t know.
Moneyshake has looked at the driving laws that you probably break without even realizing during a heat wave, which could leave you with a nasty fine or even points on your license.
Eben Lovatt, CEO of Moneyshake, said that “Drivers planning a vacation with bikes and luggage should be careful to avoid overloading their car or covering their license plate, as they could be fined up to go up to £ 2,500.
“Although some infractions seem unlikely to result in a fine, it is still very possible that you will be penalized for not obeying the rules of the road in hot weather.
“We recommend that you do not take any risks, because the heat waves are to profit, not to lose your license.”
Here is Moneyshake’s List of 8 Driving Laws in the UK 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 under no circumstances should you leave your pet in a hot car. But what if you see a dog suffering from 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 says destroying or damaging someone else’s property can get 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
Max 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 rules of the road say 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 could be fined for reckless driving.
3) Contactless payment at the drive
Maximum penalty: a ban, 3 points and a fine of £ 1,000
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 cell phone while driving.
4) Do not turn on the air conditioning 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 ventilate your vehicle well 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 result in a serious 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 medication can cause drowsiness and blurred vision, which would make you unfit to drive.
A new 2015 traffic rule (rule 96) states that you must not drive under the influence of drugs or medication.
6) Bring your bike
Maximum fine: £ 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 cost you a hefty fine and your car will fail its MOT.
If you drive with a rear mounted bike rack, consider a light panel to clearly display your license plate, reflectors, and lights.
7) Overload the car
Maximum penalty: 3 points and a fine of £ 2,500
Thinking of stowing your camping gear in the trunk or towing your family trailer? 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 may receive a penalty for using your vehicle in unsafe conditions.
8) Driving on a wet road 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” to 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 …
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Source: www.times-series.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-05-30 11:00:00
