Drivers face £2,500 fine on Friday and Saturday and 'three points on licence'

Drivers have been warned to expect up to £2,500 fines for breaking a Highway Code rule as snowfall looks set to return to the country. Drivers have been warned to demist their windscreens before driving or face fines of up to £2,500.

The RAC explained: "Consider it an essential part of car maintenance that could directly save you money on repair work further down the line. First and foremost using warm air from the system in winter is a great way to demist the windows.

"The air coming out of the vents is dry, so the air-con acts as a dehumidifier. An air-con system is much like the human body – if not used for long periods it can seize up, plus circulation suffers. The air-con is filled with a refrigerant and some oil, and it pays to keep that liquid flowing and the components of the system lubricated."

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ATS Euromaster said: “Driving in bad weather can mean your windows are likely to quickly steam up. Make sure you have your air conditioning on to make sure your visibility isn’t reduced, and you avoid a fine. Driving with misty windows could get you a £1,000 fine and three points on your licence.”

Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk said: “Drivers should always make sure to completely de-mist their windscreens before setting off or risk being slapped with a fine of up to £2,500 for breaking the Highway Code. Don’t be tempted to just leave a small gap to see what is directly in front, as you could still be fined for careless driving by not being able to see the full road view ahead.

“There are several things drivers can do to speed up the demisting to avoid driving with foggy windows.” The Highway Code states that ‘windscreens and windows must be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision’ - meaning anyone setting off before demisting their car could be faced with a hefty fine.

Taking to the road whilst vision is impaired could land drivers with a careless driving offence with an on-the-spot fine of £100 and three penalty points, while more extreme cases could see fees of up to £2,500 and disqualification.