Experts have warned against the little-known Christmas mistakes that could land you with a hefty fine.
The countdown to Christmas has started, and many people are already getting into the festive spirit. From putting up the decorations early to boxing off the Christmas shopping, households will be counting down to the big day that's just weeks away.
However, there are some common mistakes that many drivers may not be aware of that could see you slapped with a hefty fine of several thousand pound. When it comes to driving at this time of year, there are a few rules UK drivers need to be aware of.
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With this in mind, the car insurance team at Compare the Market has put together a list of some of the driving rules and regulations to follow in the run-up to the holiday season, to help keep motorists safe and avoid fines or penalties. Common mistakes include:
Decorating your car
Some drivers may be tempted to give their car a Christmas makeover, but doing so could get them in a lot of trouble. Although things like Christmas decorations and lights look pretty, they can obstruct a driver’s view of the road. Drivers found to be using a vehicle in a dangerous condition like this may be slapped with a £2,500 fine, discretionary disqualification and three penalty points.
Driving in a Christmas party outfit
Whether it takes weeks to plan the perfect party outfit or it’s a last-minute find, drivers should always make sure that their clothing and footwear choice doesn’t interfere with their ability to drive safely. Shoes like high heels or a fancy dress outfit that restricts movement while driving could prevent motorists from maintaining proper control of the vehicle, which breaks Rule 97 of the Highway Code and can land them with a £1,000 fine and three penalty points.
Driving with a Christmas tree
Picking out the perfect Christmas tree is a longstanding festive tradition, but when it comes to getting the tree home, drivers need to make sure it doesn’t block their view of the road along the way. Driving with a Christmas tree in or on the car could lead to a fine, discretionary disqualification and three penalty points if it affects a driver’s control of the vehicle or view of the road ahead. If the tree they pick is too big to fit comfortably in the car, drivers are advised to pay for a delivery service instead — or opt for a slightly smaller size.
Playing festive music
Whether it’s Mariah Carey or Michael Bublé, singing or dancing along to music while driving, can distract drivers and cause them to lose concentration. In fact, Compare the Market’s recent driving experiment revealed that dancing to music could lead to a 97% increase in reaction times behind the wheel.
Loud music can also mask other sounds from the road, and may be considered careless and inconsiderate driving in violation of Highway Code rule 148. The penalty for this is an unlimited fine, discretionary disqualification and three to nine penalty points — so motorists should try to keep the festive singalongs to a minimum when behind the wheel.
Being involved in festivities that involve alcohol
It is illegal to drive if you are unfit through alcohol consumption, as it seriously affects your judgement and driving abilities. This could result in imprisonment, unlimited fine, obligatory disqualification
Parking when visiting friends and family
You must not wait or park on single yellow lines during the times of operation, and you must never, at any time, stop or park on double yellow lines.
Why?
Julie Daniels from Compare the Market said: "Christmas is a busy period, so it’s especially important to be prepared when making journeys in your car.
"Take the time to plan your trip before you set off, including checking the traffic conditions, weather forecast, and road closures. If you’re driving a long distance, you should also break your journey up into shorter sections and allow plenty of time for rest stops.
"Most importantly, make sure to keep up to date with the rules of the road and follow these closely at all times. Christmas is expensive enough without unexpected fines to pay, and penalty points can make matters worse by potentially increasing the cost of your car insurance."
Automotive experts at Vanarama are also warning drivers about the festive fines drivers should be aware of this year. These include:
Christmas lights
In the UK, you are legally required to have white or yellow front headlights, as well as red rear tail lights. While you can add certain lights to your car in certain places and colours check The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations Act to make sure they are legal and not going to distract other drivers.
Snow and ice problems
Keeping your number plate visible at all times is essential, as this allows police and other drivers to identify the car and where it is registered. If you are caught with your number plate covered, you could face a fine of up to £1,000. Make it part of your routine to keep any dirt due to the rain and mud of the season being kicked back onto it, as well as getting ice and snow off it before your journey as well.
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