With snow and ice covering much of the UK this weekend, driving is more hazardous than usual – so you’ll need to make sure you don’t break these lesser-known laws
As the UK is blanketed in snow and ice this weekend, driving conditions have become perilous. There are several easy-to-make mistakes that could result in hefty fines during these winter months.
To safeguard your wallet this weekend, it’s crucial to be aware of the rules. Keith Hawes from Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has highlighted a few laws that could cost UK drivers thousands when navigating snowy roads, helping them avoid unexpected costs this winter.
One common oversight is leaving snow on the roof of your car before setting off. While most remember to clear their windows, the roof often gets neglected.
However, if snow from your roof obstructs your windscreen while driving or interferes with another vehicle, you could be fined for ‘using a motor vehicle in a dangerous condition’ or ‘driving without due consideration’. So, take an extra couple of minutes to clear your roof before hitting the road, or risk a fine of up to £2,500.
Another tempting but costly mistake is leaving your engine running to defrost before setting off. This could result in a £40 fine as the Highway Code states ‘you must not leave a vehicle’s engine running unnecessarily while that vehicle is stationary on a public road’.
Similarly, it’s vital to fully demist all your windows before setting off, reports the Express.
When hitting the road, it’s crucial to ensure full visibility through all windows. Failing to clear off snow and ice could land you with a hefty £2,500 fine.
Don’t forget about your number plate and lights either – leaving them covered in snow could cost you up to £1,000. Another common oversight is tyre tread depth.
To avoid a whopping fine of up to £10,000 (£2,500 per tyre), ensure each tyre has a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, as required by UK law. However, when driving in snowy or icy conditions, lower tread can be hazardous, making it harder to stop.
Therefore, aim for a tyre depth of 3mm in such conditions. Lastly, don’t overlook your attire.
Wearing inappropriate footwear while driving could result in a £5,000 fine if it’s deemed to affect your control over the pedals. So, always dress appropriately for driving.