A number of UK motorists are falling prey to common driving myths, according to experts at Bristol Street Motors. Queries such as ‘is driving barefoot illegal’ are on the rise
Despite many UK drivers considering themselves proficient on the road – it appears that a number of them are falling prey to common driving myths.
According to experts at Bristol Street Motors, there has been a surge in online searches about two particular driving misconceptions over the past three months. Queries such as ‘is driving barefoot illegal’ and ‘can you use water instead of coolant’ have seen an increase of 83 per cent and 23 per cent respectively. However, these driving myths aren’t just simple misunderstandings.
They can pose a risk to your safety and that of others, not to mention the potential for fines and points on your licence. In order to help motorists distinguish between fact and fiction, experts have analysed search data to debunk five of the most prevalent driving myths.
Is it illegal to drive barefoot?
Every month, more than 5,000 Brits search to find out if driving barefoot is against the law. The good news for those who prefer to drive shoeless is that it isn’t illegal, reports the Express. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe. It’s much safer to wear sensible footwear when driving. Opt for flat, thin-soled shoes that allow you to feel the pedals more easily.
Ensure your shoes cannot easily slip off your feet to avoid any distractions while driving. It’s also advisable to steer clear of wearing high heels, flip-flops, or heavy boots when driving as they can make controlling your car more difficult.
Can you use water instead of coolant?
While it might be tempting to use water instead of the appropriate coolant when your vehicle is overheating, this could lead to rust forming in your engine due to water’s lack of anti-corrosive properties, resulting in leaks and damage. In an emergency situation where only water is available, opt for distilled water. Unlike tap water, which contains minerals that can harm your engine, distilled water is free from impurities.
Once the emergency has passed, ensure you flush out all the water and refill it with coolant. If you’re worried about the condition of your car after using water as a coolant, then it would be wise to get a summer check. To avoid getting caught out or having to resort to distilled water, keep some engine coolant in the boot of your car for emergencies.
Is it legal to eat and drive?
Legally speaking, there’s nothing stopping you from eating while driving. However, if your snacking becomes a distraction, it could be considered careless driving. If you are found to be driving carelessly, you could face a hefty £100 on-the-spot fine and three points on your licence.
If you feel the need to snack, steer clear of messy foods that could divert your attention from the road. And if messy foods are all you have available, then it might be best to wait until you’re parked before indulging.
Does coasting save fuel?
The widely held notion that coasting saves fuel in modern cars is now debunked as a myth. In reality, coasting could potentially lead to higher fuel consumption as it still requires a small amount of fuel to power the engine. For those worried about fuel costs, the most effective way to conserve fuel is by allowing the car to slow down naturally while in gear without pressing the accelerator. Not only does coasting fail to save money, but it also heightens the risk of accidents.
If your car is in neutral or if the clutch is disengaged when going downhill, your car will accelerate more rapidly, making steering, particularly around corners, much more difficult. This lack of control can result in accidents, especially when needing to shift into gear to respond to a hazard.
Is it legal to drive with a cracked windscreen?
While there isn’t a specific law regarding cracked windscreens, it’s considered a motoring offence if the crack obstructs your view. Offenders could face a £100 fine and receive three points on their driver’s licence. Under MOT rules, your windscreen should not have damage exceeding 40mm anywhere. Even a 10mm crack directly in the driver’s line of sight can result in an MOT failure.
If you’re involved in an accident while driving with a cracked windscreen, you might face more severe driving charges. The accident could be deemed your fault due to impaired visibility.
