Drivers must 'reverse onto their driveways' or face 'unlimited' fine
Drivers must reverse into their driveways due to a Highway Code lesser-known rule, it has been warned. Highway Code has a Section - 201 - which outlines rules and restrictions for motorists, road users and drivers who are using "reverse".
Section 201 of the code explicitly states: "Do not reverse from a side road into a main road. When using a driveway, reverse in and drive out if you can." This means car owners can reverse into a main road - but only if it's safe to do so, according to driverknowledgetests.com.
The site recommends car owners reverse into their driveways, if you're home is on your left as you approach. Exiting forward is definitely the safest option, the road rules website says, as there can be a few blind spots, they warn.
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This is a risk because you can accomplish a manoeuvre much more quickly if you come out forwards - and it could put you in danger of hitting somebody. Of course, it’s also safer because it’s easier to see pedestrians and cyclists using the footpath when you've reversed in.
The site advises car owners to use all their mirrors, to check the "blind spot" behind you - which can't be easily seen in the mirrors - and check there are no pedestrians, cyclists or other road users or obstructions in the road behind you, they go on to say.
In a message to motorists, it also says drivers and road users up and down the country are expected to reserve out slowly and scan all around them as they come out. The site also says drivers are expected to look mainly through the rear window while being aware of the front of their vehicle as they swing out.
The warning comes as the October Budget from Labour brings with it new changes for motorists including a freeze in fuel duty. Drivers can receive penalty points on their license for breaking the Highway Code. If a driver accumulates 12 or more penalty points within a three-year period, they could be disqualified from driving for a minimum of six months.
While there isn't a specific fine for breaking this rule, it could be categorised under 'careless and inconsiderate driving'. Motorists could be hit with an unlimited fine and receive between three to nine penalty points on their licence for certain offences.