Temperatures are quickly dropping around the country and motorists are already dealing with the effects, having to clear their windscreen and windows before setting off for their morning commute. Experts are now warning drivers that they could face fines when they first get in the car, as well as risking sanctions when on the road, with motorists being urged to change their habits to reduce the risk.
Driving a car which weighs too much
A Category B driving licence allows people to drive vehicles up to 3,500kg, but if the vehicle is already heavy, they can easily exceed this limit with additional passengers and luggage. EVs tend to be heavier than equivalent ICE models as the battery is much heavier than a fuel tank.
A recent study revealed that “a third of the EVs tested weigh more than 2,000 kg”, with the top three (Mercedes-Benz EQV luxury passenger van, Audi e-tron 55 SUV and Mercedes-Benz EQC) coming in at 3,000kg, 2,720kg and 2,620 respectively – making it easy to exceed the weight limit without realising.
If a motorist is found to be breaking this rule, they could be hit with a £300 fine and have three penalty points added to their driving licence.
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Leaving the engine running when defrosting
According to rule 123 of the Highway Code and regulations 98 and 107 of the Road Vehicles (Constructions and Use) Regulations 1986, motorists must not leave their engine running while defrosting their car.
It states: “You must not leave a parked vehicle unattended with the engine running or leave a vehicle engine running unnecessarily while that vehicle is stationary on a public road. Generally, if the vehicle is stationary and is likely to remain so for more than a couple of minutes, you should apply the parking brake and switch off the engine to reduce emissions and noise pollution.”
While this may be seen more often as the temperatures start to drop, this rule doesn’t apply to those who have their own driveway. Guilty motorists face a £20 fine, which can increase to £40 if the engine is not switched off.
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Careless driving
According to rule 126 of the Highway Code, tailgating is an offence and can be punishable by the police. Tailgating is especially dangerous in winter months as stopping times can be longer than expected due to poor road conditions.
Rule 126 states: “Tailgating is where the gap between you and the vehicle in front is too small for you to be able to stop safely if the vehicle in front suddenly brakes. Tailgating is dangerous, intimidating and can cause collisions, especially when driving at speed. Keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front gives you time to react and stop if necessary.”
Dangerous and careless driving offences, such as tailgating, are enforced by the police and can see drivers hit with a £100 fine and three points on their licence.
Not defrosting windows properly
According to the Highway Code, failure to have proper control of the vehicle or full view of the road and traffic ahead is an offence.
This means they need to fully defrost their windscreen before setting off although it can be tempting to just defrost a small section so they can see out – especially if they are in a rush.
Drivers face fines of £1,000, while PCV and goods vehicle motorists could see fines up to £2,500, as well as a discretionary disqualification and three points on their licence.
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