Driving is a privilege and a responsibility, and with that comes a set of laws and regulations to ensure the safety of all road users. In the UK, these laws cover everything from the speed limit to what one can and cannot do behind the wheel.
If you’re caught on traffic cameras, I’m sure you’ll learn what a notice of intended prosecution is.
Some of these laws may be considered strange or unusual by some. In this article, we’ll take a look at some driving offences in the UK that a lot of drivers don’t know.
1. Eating behind the wheel
Eating while driving is not illegal, but can cause you to take your eyes off the road and your hands off the wheel, making it a danger to yourself and others.
If it results in a lack of control and leads to careless driving, the police may prosecute you. To avoid any potential issues, it is important to be mindful of other drivers and exercise caution while indulging in your favorite food while behind the wheel.
2. Splashing pedestrians with puddles
Drivers in the UK are required to show consideration for other road users, including pedestrians. Speeding through a puddle on the side of the road with the intention of splashing a pedestrian is illegal and can result in a fine of up to £5,000.
3. Smoking in a car with a child present
Smoking in an enclosed private vehicle with multiple people present, one of whom is under 18 years old, is a violation of regulations and is considered an offense. This applies to any individual smoking, regardless of their age.
This is because second-hand smoke can cause serious health problems for children, and it’s the driver’s responsibility to ensure their passengers are safe.
4. Wearing slippers while driving
Wearing slippers while driving can be dangerous because they can easily slip off and get caught under the pedals.
It is not illegal to wear slipper while driving, but if an accident occurs and the police observe that the driver was wearing inappropriate footwear, such as flip flops or no shoes, they may be cited for driving without due care and attention.
This offense carries a £100 fine and three penalty points on the driver’s license. In the event that the case goes to court, the driver could face a maximum penalty of £5,000, nine penalty points, and even a potential driving ban.
5. Driving with a dirty number plate
Drivers are required to keep their number plates clean and visible at all times. This means that driving with a dirty number plate, to a point where it becomes unreadable then it can result to a maximum of £1000 fine.
6. Driving a car with snow on the roof
Driving with snow on the roof of a car can pose a hazard to other road users, as it can fall onto their windscreen and obstruct their view. It is not illegal to drive with snow on the roof of a car, but if it the snow falls on your windscreen and causes driving distraction, then you’re in trouble.
7. Leaving a vehicle engine running while unattended
Leaving a vehicle engine running while unattended is considered an offence in the UK. This is because it can be a source of pollution and can also make the vehicle vulnerable to theft. This is stated in Rule 123 of the Higway Code.
8. Driving with a cracked windscreen
Drivers are required to maintain their vehicles ina safe condition, which includes having a fully functioning windscreen. A cracked windscreen can obstruct the driver’s view and can be a potential safety hazard, so it’s important to have it fixed as soon as possible.
9. Sounding your horn in built-up areas between 11.30pm and 7.00am
Sounding your horn in built-up areas between 11.30pm and 7.00am is considered a disturbance and is illegal in the UK. This is because it can be disruptive to residents and can also cause alarm and distress.
These unusual driving offences in the UK may seem trivial, but they are in place to ensure the safety of all road users. It’s important for drivers to be aware of these laws and to abide by them at all times to ensure a safe and orderly driving environment. That’s why drivers accumulating 12 or more points within a 3-year period get a totting up ban. Remember, having a driving licence comes with responsibilities.