Drivers face £1,000 fines for breaking Highway Code rules over sat-nav
Drivers are being warned to brush up on rules around sat-navs. And the AA says failing to do so could end in a £1,000 fine.
With more and more people taking to the roads following the end of the summer holidays, driving experts at the AA are warning that many drivers may be unknowingly breaking road laws. The AA has issued a warning to UK drivers around 5 lesser-known laws and rules in the Highway Code that could land drivers with points against their licence or fines of up to £1,000 each.
While the vast majority of Brits aware that they can’t be on their phone or fiddling with their sat-nav while driving without risking the safety of everyone in their car and the vehicles around them, there is an additional piece of fine print around this rule. Under Highway Code Rule 149, the experts advised that you can’t use a mobile phone or sat-nav without a secured holder.
Understandably many drivers use both of these devices to find their way and handy holders that strap onto your dashboard has made it far simpler, and safer to follow your directions while keeping your eyes on the road. The AA warned using a mobile phone or sat-nav without a secured holder can result in up to six penatly points and £1,000 fine.
They added: “Remember to be careful where you mount your device as there could also be repercussions if you do not have a full view of the road ahead.” Arguably one of the most commonly broken, but lesser known rule, is that drivers actually aren’t allowed to use their horn out of anger or frustration while stationary.
Additionally, honking a friendly ‘hello’ to a passerby you might know is also illegal under highway code rule 112. This has an unlimited potential fine and up to 9 points against your licence.
The AA explained the correct use of your horn is: “Drivers must only use their car horn while the vehicle is moving, and for the purpose of warning other road users of their presence. You should not use your horn aggressively, while stationary, or when driving in a built-up area at night (between 11.30pm and 7am), unless another road user poses a danger.”
Another rule takes into account the wellbeing of horses on the road. The experts highlighted: “If drivers encounter a horse, from wild horses in areas like the New Forest or those being ridden by a horse rider, they should slow down to a maximum of 10 mph and refrain from sounding their horn or revving their engine while passing.
“When it’s safe, drivers are advised to pass the horse slowly, allowing at least two metres of space.” Overtaking horses too quickly or loudly could see drivers an unlimited fine and anywhere between 3 to 9 points against their licence.
Distractions in the car can also earn some major fines as arguing with passengers holds a repercussions of £1,000 and 3 penalty points regardless of if it’s a heated conversation or full-blown fight. This is because it can distract the driver and might cause them to drive “without due care and attention”.
Other distractions include trying to read maps, listening to overtly loud music, eating, drinking and smoking. Not having your pet suitably restrained in the car also falls into this category but holds the greater risk as it could potentially injure your animals or others in the vehicle if you have to break suddenly. Good restraints the AA suggest include a seat belt harness, pet carrier, cage or dog guard.