Strategies for Steering Clear of Traffic Violations and Demerit Points during Summer
UK Driving Rules During Summer Holidays: A Comprehensive Guide
As the summer holidays approach, many Britons are gearing up for a well-deserved break, with plans to explore scenic attractions, the coast, or UK National Parks by car. However, it's essential to be aware of the rules and regulations that come with driving during this period.
Firstly, it's worth clarifying a common misconception. In the UK, it is not illegal to drive barefoot or wearing slippers, flip-flops, or heels. However, the Highway Code advises that your clothing and footwear must not prevent you from using the controls of the vehicle properly. This means that while these types of footwear are not prohibited, they might not be the safest choice.
For instance, flip-flops or slippers might slip off, reducing pedal control, and heels could affect your ability to control the pedals safely. It's crucial to ensure your footwear does not impair your control of the vehicle, or you risk enforcement action under general safety rules.
Listening to loud music while driving is not illegal, but it may distract the driver, potentially leading to dangerous driving behaviour. Eating or drinking behind the wheel is also not allowed, as it can impair your ability to focus on the road.
When it comes to travelling to EU countries, it's important to be aware of the necessary checks before setting off. Admiral reminds drivers to be prepared, as failing to comply with certain rules could result in hefty fines and possibly car seizure.
In addition, it's worth noting that using car lights to signal to other drivers is not legal. This misconception may have arisen due to the use of hazard lights in certain situations, but they should only be used when your vehicle is stationary or moving slowly.
Lastly, the rapid return of cars to UK roads after lockdown could create safety and legal issues. With more vehicles on the road, it's crucial to be extra vigilant, particularly during bank holidays when the sunshine could lead to a busy road situation with cyclists and pedestrians.
Remember, the key to safe and legal driving is to be aware of the rules and to exercise caution at all times. Comparing car insurance can help you find the best policy, with CompareNI.com being a reliable resource. ARAG warns of potential safety and legal issues for motorists and other road users, so it's essential to drive responsibly this summer.
[1] GOV.UK - The Highway Code: Rule 97 - Clothing and footwear [2] GOV.UK - Penalties for careless driving [3] RAC - Can you get fined for driving in flip flops? [4] AA - Can you get fined for driving barefoot?
- Motor insurance providers, such as Admiral, urge drivers to be prepared when traveling to EU countries, as failing to comply with certain rules could lead to hefty fines and possible car seizure.
- The rapid return of cars to UK roads after lockdown could create safety and legal issues, making it crucial for drivers to be extra vigilant, particularly during bank holidays when the sunshine could lead to a busy road situation with cyclists and pedestrians.
- Comparing car insurance can help drivers find the best policy, with CompareNI.com being a reliable resource.
- It's essential to remember that using car lights to signal to other drivers is not legal, and this misconception may have arisen due to the use of hazard lights in certain situations, but they should only be used when your vehicle is stationary or moving slowly.
