When you learn to drive, it’s not just about mastering the technical skills of steering, braking, and accelerating. You also need to get to grips with the numerous laws and regulations that govern driving in the UK. While most drivers are aware that speeding and using a mobile phone behind the wheel are illegal, there are plenty of other habits that can land you with a fine or even points on your driving license. Let’s take a look…
1. Taking Prescription Drugs Before Driving
Many drivers aren’t aware that certain prescription medications can impair your ability to drive safely. In fact, new roadside screening devices introduced in 2015 revealed that drugs like codeine, which are commonly prescribed for pain, can result in a driving ban if taken before getting behind the wheel. Prescription and over-the-counter medications that cause drowsiness often come with a clear “do not drive” warning on the label. Always check the medication’s label and consult your doctor if you’re unsure whether it’s safe to drive after taking it. Driving under the influence of certain prescription drugs is treated the same way as driving under the influence of alcohol, with serious penalties for offenders.
2. Using Your Horn in Anger
The horn in your car is there to alert other drivers of potential danger, not as a tool to vent your frustrations. Using your horn out of anger or in a fit of road rage can lead to fines and even points on your license. It’s also important to know that honking your horn between 11:30 pm and 7 am is only allowed in an emergency situation. So, if you're stuck in traffic or feel frustrated, it’s best to take a deep breath and refrain from honking unless absolutely necessary.
3. Splashing Pedestrians with Puddles
We’ve all experienced the unfortunate moment when a large vehicle drives through a puddle, sending a wave of water straight at pedestrians. While it might seem like an accident, the truth is that deliberately or recklessly splashing pedestrians can land you with a fine or penalty points. In some extreme cases, people have even been handed tickets for public order offences when they intentionally target people walking along the pavement. So, next time you approach a puddle, make sure you’re slowing down, not speeding up!
4. Smoking in the Car with Children Present
Since October 2015, it’s been illegal to smoke in a car if there are passengers under the age of 18. This law was put in place to protect children from the harmful effects of passive smoke. As a driver, you are responsible for ensuring that no one in your car smokes when there are children present. This means that even if you are just a passenger in a car with young ones, you could be fined if you light up. If you have children in your vehicle, make sure to follow the rules and avoid smoking in the car, as this is not only illegal but also unsafe for young passengers.
5. Having a Dirty Number Plate
It’s easy for your car to get dirty, especially during the winter months or after driving on the rural country lanes around Skipton. However, it’s important to keep your vehicle’s number plate clean and clearly visible at all times. If your number plate is obscured by dirt, mud, or other debris, you could be breaking the law. Police can issue fines if they cannot read your number plate due to its condition. Regularly check your number plate and clean it off when necessary to ensure it remains readable.
Stay Informed and Drive Responsibly
Being aware of these lesser-known driving habits can help you stay on the right side of the law and avoid costly fines or penalties. Whether you’re taking prescription medication, venting your frustrations on the road, or driving in less-than-ideal weather conditions, always stay mindful of the laws and regulations in place to keep both you and others safe. If you're hiring a vehicle from us here at Skipton Self Drive, whether it’s a car or van, ensure you know the rules about what you can and can't do behind the wheel.
At Skipton Self Drive, we want to make sure that all of our customers stay safe, informed, and compliant with the law. If you’re ever in doubt about what’s legal or not when driving a rental vehicle, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is happy to help guide you and ensure you have a smooth, trouble-free experience on the road.
Book your vehicle today by contacting our team on 01756 792911 or book online here.
