- Motorists are risking their driving licence by ignoring important road safety rules
- Road safety experts are advising people to take care this festive season
Christmas revellers accepting a lift home from the pub from a learner could risk jail, drivers have been warned.
Motorists are at risk if they have had in excess of the drink-drive limit despite not being behind the wheel.
According to short-term car insurance company Veygo, there will be an estimated 21 million journeys before the turkey is served on Monday.
Some of those getting behind the wheel may inadvertently be risking large fines, penalty points or even prison.
Depending on the offence, motorists could be fined almost £10,000.
Other potential infringements include enjoying a mince pie while driving along the highway; road rage in response to an incident or frustration at the level of traffic; loading the car up with excessive luggage or presents and even car-sharing without the correct insurance when ‘doing a Chris Rea’.
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Worse still, as a result of a court appearance or penalty points, the motorist will face higher insurance costs for several years.
If a learner is behind the wheel, they need a fully qualified driver in the car with them who is also insured on that vehicle.
Importantly, the supervisor must be in a fit state to drive, including being below the drink driving limit.
The supervisor has to be aged at least 21 and have had their licence for three years.
James Armstrong, CEO of Veygo said: ‘Not many people realise that accepting a lift from a learner designated driver, no matter how confident they may seem, means you’re responsible.
‘As a qualified and supervising driver, the same rules as if you were in the driver’s seat apply, it is vital that you remain within the drink drive limit to ensure everyone’s safety.
‘We urge motorists to keep the roads safe and not to hop into the front passenger seat with a learner as a designated driver behind the wheel unless both are under the legal drink drive limit.
‘Anyone caught flouting this important rule faces a hefty fine of up to £2,500, and a potential to receive a driving ban, or even a three-month prison sentence.’
Motorists have been warned against overloading their cars when returning from the shops as this could result in a £1,000 fine and a possible three penalty points.
Mr Armstrong said: ‘Driving with an obstructed view carries a fine of £1,000 or more for ‘failure to have proper control of a vehicle or full view of the road and traffic ahead’.
‘Additionally, the Highway Code has clarified further, as “windscreens and windows must be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision”.
‘It is vital to ensure your vehicle complies with Highway Code rules and enables clear vision for the driver – especially out of the rear view mirror.
‘Avoid stacking things high in your car – roof boxes and roof racks come in handy in these instances, but it’s important too to consider load and weight as further fines apply for overloaded vehicles too.’
Sharing driving duties on a long journey is a sensible precaution although, without the correct insurance cover, the person behind the wheel could face prosecution resulting in a large fine, penalty points and a potential driving ban.
Mr Armstrong said: ‘It is illegal to drive a vehicle on a road or a public place without at least third-party insurance.
‘Make sure you are taking control of the reins this festive period and driving that friend home, as the incorrect level of cover could land you with a not-so-jolly fixed penalty of £300 and 6 points on the licence.’
Eating while driving on the road could lead to being prosecuted for careless driving and not having full control of a vehicle. This could result in three penalty points with a £100 fine.
Mr Armstrong said: ‘Eating behind the wheel may not be illegal, but it can result in a lack of concentration and a violation of Highway Code Rule 148.
‘It’s worth noting that if the case is considered to be more serious and if it goes to court under careless driving by distraction from eating, that could have more severe consequences, including legal prosecution, licence suspension, and a fine of up to £5,000.’
Driving over the festive period can be very stressful, with many jobs to be completed or long distances to be covered. This can increase frustration leading to possible anger and road rage.
There are a range of offences covering road rage and inconsiderate driving, including hooting the horn at certain times or driving too close to the motorist in front.
A driver can appeal the FPN in court where they run the risk of a fine of up to £1,000.
Mr Armstrong added: ‘Some drivers will feel road stress more than others at this time of year as the pressures of a “perfect Christmas” mount.
‘The best thing to do to avoid fines and points from this is to allow enough time for your journey so you don’t get anxious at being late and avoid busy motorways or roads as much as possible.’
Veygo is a short-term car insurance company which enables people to cover themselves on a vehicle for a couple of hours to a few weeks.
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
