The lengthy list is worth taking note of to avoid hefty fines and penalty points
Drivers are being reminded of lesser-known offences that could land them with penalty points and a combined £12,000 worth of fines.
Many motorists are committing crimes every day that they may not be aware of. With this in mind, experts at BlackCircles are telling drivers why these unknown offences could land you in trouble.
10 ‘unknown’ ways to get points on your licence
Eating and drinking non-alcoholic beverages whilst driving
With many drivers constantly on the go, it is very tempting to eat and drink, especially during long distances. However, if caught eating food or drinking non-alcoholic beverages whilst driving, you could be accused of not being in proper control of your motor vehicle. You could be fined up to £200 and have 6 points on your licence.
Smoking or vaping in your car
Smoking or vaping in your car is not technically illegal. However, you could be charged if you are caught with your driver’s screen covered in smoke or vapour. Under the careless or dangerous driving provisions in the Road Traffic Act 2003, it can be considered that a smoke-covered screen may lead to an accident, and you could face 3 to 9 points on your licence.
Cluttered dashboard
You may want to customise your car’s interiors, but this could lead to penalties. Although not illegal, drivers caught with a cluttered dashboard that is deemed a distraction could land you a fine of £100 and 3 points on your licence. For those who are confused as to where Sat Navs should go on your dashboard; it is recommended it should be placed at the bottom right corner of your windscreen so there is little screen obstruction.
Letting your dog hang its head out of the window
Many furry friends love to hang their heads out of the car window during journeys. However, Rule 57 of the Highway Code prohibits this. The rule states that your dog should be safely secured when travelling to avoid distraction or injury. If caught, drivers could expect up to 6 points on their licence and even a £5,000 fine.
If you haven’t had an eye test
It is very important for drivers to have regular eye tests and, if needed, wear glasses while driving. Drivers with poor eyesight could face up to £1,000 fine and a 3-point penalty. This is particularly important for older drivers, as eyesight can change regularly.
Road rage
It can be frustrating when there are bad drivers on the road, and many of us admit to feeling angry while driving. However, if you are caught shouting, using abusive language, or making rude hand gestures, you could be convicted of dangerous or careless driving under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act. Drivers caught can face a £1,000 fine and 3 points on their licence.
Found sleeping in your vehicle
Being found asleep in your car can add points to your license. If you are under the influence of alcohol and you are found with your keys in your car, you may be breaching Section 4 of the Road Traffic Act 1998. Even if you are not operating the car, you could face 10 points on your license.
Wearing sunglasses
Wearing certain types of sunglasses can actually add points to your licence. Sunglasses that are very dark and only transmit 3-8% of light are illegal to wear whilst driving. This is because they can affect your sight, which is a hazard. Drivers caught wearing these sunglasses could face a hefty £5,000 fine and 9 penalty points.
Riding an electric scooter over the alcohol limit
Driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol is a clear no-no. But many may not be aware that being caught operating an electric scooter can add points to your licence and even a driving ban. With some cities offering electric scooters to travel around, it could be tempting to hop on one after a drink. However, operating one of these whilst under the influence could result in you receiving a minimum of 6 points on your licence and even a criminal conviction.
If your child’s seat isn’t properly fitted
It is very important for your child’s seat to be properly fitted into your vehicle so that there is no risk of distraction or injury whilst you are driving. Drivers caught with a seat that is not properly fitted could face a fine of up to £500 and 3 points on their driver’s licence.
