Drivers could be slapped with a fine of up to £2,500 and handed three penalty points on their driving licence if they fall foul of this little known law when driving in the rain
Drivers have been warned that they must buy an “essential” 50p item for their car – or face a huge fine.
With rain soaking most parts of the UK even before winter has arrived, it’s vital our wing mirrors are kept clean during heavy rainfall to ensure safe driving. Wing mirrors which are heavily obscured by rain can significantly impair visibility and may even land you in trouble with the police. In fact, if a vehicle is considered to be in a dangerous condition, it may result in fines of up to £2,500 and three penalty points on your driving licence. There is a simple yet effective hack to prevent this from happening, though, Liverpool Echo reports.
Toothpaste, which can be purchased for as little as 50p from Tesco, can help keep wing mirrors free from condensation. According to car expert and owner of DPF Expert, Ben Pitcher, toothpaste will help prevent drivers from breaking the law and keep wing mirrors in a safe condition during rainfall. “Having clear and unobstructed wing mirrors is essential for safe driving,” he said. “If a police officer determines that your vehicle’s visibility is compromised, you could face fines of up to £2,500 and receive three penalty points on your licence. This hack works with any toothpaste containing fluoride and guarantees your mirrors keep you safe during rainy conditions, preventing you from breaking vehicle condition laws.”
So, how exactly does it work? Well firstly you have to make sure you clean both wing mirrors with glass cleaner before applying the toothpaste. Then, simply apply and rub the toothpaste into the mirrors. It can even be used on the windscreen to prevent it from misting. Ben said: “Toothpaste creates a smooth surface that allows raindrops to slide off rather than pooling on the mirror, which can obstruct a driver’s view and lead to safety hazards. Before applying toothpaste, it’s important to clean the mirror with a glass cleaner.
“This initial step removes any dirt, grime, or fingerprints, creating a clear surface for the toothpaste to work on. Having a clean mirror beforehand maximises the toothpaste’s effectiveness, creating a proper barrier against water. Applying toothpaste to the windscreen can also prevent the windscreen from misting by reducing the surface tension of moisture, allowing for clearer visibility during heavy rain. This simple hack not only improves visibility in rain but can also be applied to headlights and leather seats. By buffing cloudy headlights with toothpaste, drivers can enhance the brightness and clarity of their lights, improving night-time visibility.”
