- Experts warn motorists could face fines and penalty points for common winter driving mistakes
- Obscured windscreens, uncleared snow and worn tyres among the most overlooked offences
- Experts share top tips to prepare vehicles properly before setting off in Storm Goretti
As temperatures continue to plummet across the UK, motorists are being warned that common winter driving mistakes could result in unexpected fines, even during short journeys.
Experts at Dayinsure, one of the UK’s leading temporary car insurance providers, say many drivers are unaware that everyday winter oversights can lead to driving risks and financial consequences.
While icy roads, frosty mornings and low winter sun already increase accident risk, failing to properly prepare your vehicle could also leave drivers facing fines.
Chris Bibby, motoring expert and CEO of Dayinsure, shares his advice on what drivers should and shouldn’t do as temperatures fall across the UK.
- Give yourself more space on icy roads. In freezing conditions, stopping distances can increase dramatically. Leaving extra room between you and the car in front reduces the risk of harsh braking that can lead to skids, collisions and potential penalties. In icy or freezing conditions, drivers should aim to leave 10-12 metres, think of this as at least one full bus length, between their car and the vehicle in front.
- Slow and steady beats sharp braking. Sudden braking and aggressive steering increase the chance of losing control in winter conditions. Keeping speed steady and movements smooth helps maintain control and avoid accidents.
- Make sure your view is 100% clear before setting off. Windscreens and windows should be fully cleared before driving, partial visibility can still land drivers in trouble. Not clearing snow from the roof of your car which could then slide onto your windscreen or other vehicles, can be classed as driving without proper control.
- Use fog lights only when conditions genuinely demand it. Failing to use headlights in poor visibility or misusing fog lights can lead to on-the-spot fines. The UK Highway Code says fog lights should only be used when visibility drops below about 100 metres and must be switched off as soon as conditions improve, or you risk a penalty of around £50.
- Avoid dashboard decorations and windscreen clutter. Stickers, ornaments or hanging decorations can restrict vision or cause distractions. Keeping the driving area clear helps avoid fines and improves safety. Driving with obscured windscreens or mirrors can result in fines of up to £1,000 and three penalty points if vision is deemed impaired.
- Make sure you prepare your car, simple checks including tyres, lights and fluids, can prevent breakdowns, fines and dangerous situations during cold snaps. Obscured or unreadable number plates, due to mud, snow or ice, can lead to a fine, as can tyres below the legal tread depth of 1.6mm potentially resulting in fines of up to £2,500 per tyre and three penalty points.
- Pack for the worst, even on short trips. A basic winter breakdown kit can make a huge difference if delays or breakdowns occur, especially during freezing weather or heavy traffic.
Chris Bibby, CEO of Dayinsure, adds: “Many drivers associate winter risks with skidding or poor visibility, but often what comes as a surprise is how easy it is to pick up a fine simply by not preparing your car properly.
“Clearing your windows, checking your tyres and making sure lights operate properly may seem minor, but failing to do so can carry penalties, on top of increased safety risks.”