Drivers face fines for driving UNDER 10 per cent above speed limit in crackdown

Drivers face fines for driving UNDER 10 per cent above speed limit in crackdown
-Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited


Drivers have issued a warning as motorists face fines for going UNDER the 10 per cent 'grace period' when it comes to speeding. It’s a myth that you can legally drive 10 per cent over the speed limit, drivers have been warned by the AA.

The AA explained, while some police may allow for speedometer inaccuracies, enforcement varies. The National Police Chief’s Council suggests ticketing only when exceeding the limit by 10 per cent plus 2mph (e.g driving 35 mph on a road with a 30 mph limit), but this isn’t guaranteed. Best advice: stick to the limit.

The AA also said other myths include drinking alcohol as a passenger - or alcohol-free beer. The motoring body said: "It’s legal to drink alcohol as a passenger, but not always advisable. Passengers can aid safer driving. If supervising a learner driver, you must stay sober and avoid using your phone.

ADVERTISEMENT

READ MORE: UK faces big driving law change because '85 per cent of motorists want it'

READ MORE: Drivers of one of UK's most popular cars to be hit by huge tax hike

READ MORE All the parts of England and Scotland facing snow AGAIN before end of January

"You absolutely can’t drink alcohol while driving, as even one drink could put you over the legal drink-driving limit. It’s not illegal to drink alcohol-free beer while driving in the UK, but if it resembles an alcoholic beverage, you may still be stopped by police. To avoid confusion and delays, it’s best to wait until after your journey to drink.

Eating while driving is another, with the AA saying: "There’s no specific law against eating while driving, but it can lead to careless driving charges if it distracts you. This carries a maximum penalty of £5,000, three to nine points on your licence and a discretionary driving disqualification. To stay safe, eat when stationary, especially in bad weather where stopping distances are longer."

ADVERTISEMENT

On smoking while driving, the AA said: "It’s illegal to smoke in private vehicles with anyone under 18 or in company vehicles. If you use a private car for business occasionally, smoking is allowed. However, smoking can still be a distraction, potentially leading to a careless driving charge."

Other myths include driving with snow on your car and driving with the interior lights on. At night, it can cause distractions or impair vision. If deemed a factor in careless driving, you could face a charge, they added.

The AA said: “Many drivers unknowingly believe in these myths, which can lead to unsafe habits or even legal trouble. It’s essential to know the facts—whether it’s sticking to speed limits or avoiding distractions like eating while driving. Staying informed helps keep everyone safer on the road.”