Motorists are being warned of the festive driving rules that, if broken, could lead to a cheerless Christmas. We’re offering this seasonal advice here at Trackdays HQ, as millions start to plan their Christmas getaway or look to use their car for other festive activities.
Failing to follow these rules can lead to fines starting at £50, rising to £2,500 and greater, three points on a licence, a driving ban if considered dangerous and even imprisonment.
Imran Malek, corporate sales manager at Trackdays.co.uk, says: "Christmas is the season of goodwill, and this includes out on the road. It's not only safer to follow motoring laws, no matter what the vehicle is being used for over the festive period, but it is also considerate to other road users."
Don't get the needle with a tree
Millions of Christmas trees are sold every year in the UK, with the consequence that countless drivers are possibly falling foul of vehicle loading and towing rules in getting them home from the tree farm or garden centre.
This is as a result of Rule 98 of the Highway Code, which states that a vehicle or trailer must not be overloaded, and not tow a weight greater than that recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. There's also the problem of the Christmas tree potentially obstructing the view of the road, while the load must be secured and not stick out dangerously.
Fines can be as much as £2,500, while other punishments include three penalty points and a driving ban if considered to be driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition - which must surely sting more than one of the tree needles.
Drop the decorations
It can be easy to get caught up in the Christmas spirit and want to decorate everything, including the car. However, it is sensible to keep the tinsel to the tree. The issue comes when decorations block the driver's view of the road or a decoration falls off. This falls into the same category of driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition, once again possibly resulting in three penalty points, a driving ban and a fine of up to £2,500.
Coloured lights also look best on a Christmas tree because under the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 they can be considered not native to the vehicle, leading to trouble if adorning a vehicle. Meanwhile, dressing in a Christmas costume that limits control of the vehicle can be seen as careless or dangerous driving.
Boot full of trouble
Blocking a rear screen, such as with a boot full of presents or luggage if visiting friends and family, is not illegal if the car has two fully functional wing mirrors. However, the insurance could be invalidated if the vehicle is in an accident and the view is obstructed. Additionally, overloading a car by packing too much into it can be contrary to the Road Traffic Act 1988, Section 41B. That is because it is an offence to use a vehicle that does not adhere with the construction and use requirements regarding weight.
Furthermore, the Road Traffic Act 1988, Section 40A considers if the weight, position or distribution of a load, or the manner in which it is secured, is a danger. Three penalty points, an unlimited fine and even a prison sentence are among the possible punishments if found guilty of dangerous driving.
Silent night (and day) - keep the music down when driving
Playing a festive tune loudly could hit the wrong note under Rule 148 of the Highway Code. It stipulates that safe driving and riding requires concentration, and this includes avoiding distractions such as loud music.
Should it be considered a distraction, then possible punishments include a £100 fine and three penalty points. However, if it falls into dangerous driving, then guilty drivers risk an unlimited fine, a driving ban and even imprisonment as it is a more serious offence.
Visit our Driving Lessons page to discover our range of sessions designed to encourage safer driving out on the roads - and keep your eyes peeled for our Black Friday Special Offers coming this weekend.
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