Hundreds of drivers have been fined in the last couple of years for making simple mistakes even some losing their driving licenses
As the new school term kicks off, thousands of UK drivers are being cautioned to remain alert about vehicle safety regulations designed to safeguard youngsters.
Since 2022, more than 11,000 penalties have been handed out for violations concerning child safety in cars, demonstrating just how vital it is to grasp and adhere to these regulations.
Neil Hutchinson from Essex-based Mercury Car Centre has called on parents to steer clear of typical mistakes such as neglecting to engage child locks or getting behind the wheel whilst exhausted – errors that could not only put children at risk but also result in hefty penalties and potentially losing their driving privileges.
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Not engaging child locks might appear trivial, but it can actually carry some severe repercussions. Should a youngster open a door whilst the vehicle is in motion, the motorist could face accusations of careless driving, potentially incurring fines of up to £5,000, penalty points on their licence, or even complete disqualification from driving, reports the Express.
Mr Hutchinson said: “Not using child locks may seem like a small oversight, but if a child opens a door mid-drive, it could lead to careless driving charges. Depending on the circumstances, this could mean points on your licence, a fine of up to £5,000, or even losing your licence altogether. Engaging the child lock is a simple step that helps keep children safe and avoids serious consequences.”
Sanctions for operating a vehicle whilst excessively tired can also span from a £100 penalty and three points to as much as £5,000, nine points, or disqualification in serious instances.
The expert continued: “Parenting can be exhausting, but driving when you’re over-fatigued is extremely dangerous and can be treated as careless driving.”
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“The penalties range from a £100 fine and three points to as much as a £5,000 fine, nine points, or even disqualification in the most serious cases. If you feel too tired to drive, it’s always best to rest before getting behind the wheel,” he added.
Another frequent error that could land you with a £5,000 penalty and nine points is playing music at excessive volume. Whilst it may appear innocent to crank up the sound for a family sing-song during the school run, booming music can stop motorists from detecting emergency vehicles or other dangers.
Should you be considered to be driving without proper care and attention because of loud music, the repercussions can be harsh. Mr Hutchinson explained: “Long car journeys with children often involve music and sing-alongs, but loud music can stop you from hearing potential hazards on the road.
“The Highway Code makes it clear that distractions should be avoided, and if you are found to be driving without due care and attention, the penalties can be severe, up to a £5,000 fine, nine points, or a driving ban.”
Additional penalties to be aware of include up to £1,000 or a driving prohibition for diversions such as adjusting a child’s tablet or phone whilst driving, and up to £500 plus three penalty points for failing to use the correct car seat, which is legally required until a child is 12 years old or 135cm tall.