Drivers warned they could face £5,000 fine over romantic gestures
Motorists are being urged to stay on the right side of the law this Valentine's Day, with seemingly harmless romantic gestures potentially costing thousands in fines. With Valentine's Day approaching, experts have warned that some traditions could lead to serious penalties.
While obvious offences like drink driving remain a major concern, drivers could also find themselves in trouble for lesser-known rules, such as leaving the engine running while picking up their date or even holding hands while driving. James Jackson, CEO of Bumper, an automotive payments provider, has highlighted several ways motorists could inadvertently break the law.
From gifts obstructing visibility to distractions at the wheel, small errors could result in points on a licence or even a driving ban. Here are five ways a Valentine’s Day drive could turn into a costly mistake:
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Balloons blocking the view - A big bunch of heart-shaped balloons might make for a cute surprise, but if they’re not secured properly, they could land drivers with a fine of up to £1,000 and three penalty points.
Mr Jackson warned: "A large balloon floating around inside the car can easily obstruct a driver’s view, creating a serious hazard. If the police deem your vision impaired, you could face penalties." To stay safe and legal, people are urged to make sure any decorations or gifts are safely stored away and not obstruct windows.
Leaving the engine running while picking up your date - Waiting outside with the engine idling while your date finishes getting ready? That could see you slapped with a fine. The Highway Code states that drivers must not leave their engine running unnecessarily while stationary on a public road.
Breaking this rule could result in an on-the-spot £20 fine, or up to £80 in certain areas. While it might seem like a harmless habit, especially on a cold February evening, turning the engine off could save both money and the environment.
Drink driving dangers - A glass of wine with dinner might seem innocent, but it could easily push drivers over the legal limit. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the alcohol limit stands at 80mg per 100ml of blood.
Exceeding this could lead to a hefty fine of up to £5,000, a driving ban, or even a prison sentence in severe cases. The safest approach? If you're planning on drinking, leave the car at home and arrange alternative transport.
Stopping for a selfie - Capturing the perfect Valentine's Day moment while behind the wheel could result in more than just a bad photo. Using a phone while driving carries a £200 fine and six penalty points. New drivers who passed their test within the last two years could even lose their licence entirely.
Mr Jackson warned: "A quick selfie might seem harmless, but taking your eyes off the road for even a split second can be incredibly dangerous." If you must document the occasion, wait until you’ve parked safely before reaching for your phone.
Holding hands while driving - A romantic hand-hold might seem sweet, but it could also be seen as dangerous driving. The Highway Code advises motorists to keep both hands on the wheel and avoid unnecessary distractions.
Failing to do so could be classed as dangerous driving — an offence that carries a potential two-year prison sentence, unlimited fines, and an obligatory driving ban. So, while love might be in the air, it’s best to keep both hands firmly on the wheel when driving.