Drivers encounter loads of recommendation—some correct, some not—on how you can navigate the roads safely. Nevertheless, many frequent misconceptions can result in unsafe practices and even authorized points. From velocity limits to consuming alcohol-free beer behind the wheel, it’s time to set the report straight.
To assist UK motorists keep away from fines, consultants at The AA have separated driving reality from fiction debunking 10 widespread driving myths and supplied data to assist drivers keep secure and knowledgeable on the street.
Driving 10% over the velocity restrict with out breaking the legislation
It’s a delusion which you can legally drive 10% over the velocity restrict. Whereas some police could enable for speedometer inaccuracies, enforcement varies. The Nationwide Police Chief’s Council suggests ticketing solely when exceeding the restrict by 10% plus 2mph (e.g driving 35 mph on a street with a 30 mph restrict), however this isn’t assured. Finest recommendation: persist with the restrict.
Consuming alcohol as a passenger in a automobile
It’s authorized to drink alcohol as a passenger, however not all the time advisable. Passengers can assist safer driving. If supervising a learner driver, it’s essential to keep sober and keep away from utilizing your cellphone. You completely can’t drink alcohol whereas driving, as even one drink may put you over the authorized drink-driving restrict.
Consuming alcohol-free beer whereas driving
It’s not unlawful to drink alcohol-free beer whereas driving within the UK, but when it resembles an alcoholic beverage, you should still be stopped by police. To keep away from confusion and delays, it’s finest to attend till after your journey to drink.
Sucking a penny will idiot a breathalyser
There’s a delusion that sucking on pennies can cheat a breathalyser, but it surely’s false and unlawful to aim. Chewing garlic, citrus, or mints received’t work both. The message is straightforward: don’t drink and drive.
Consuming whereas driving
There’s no particular legislation in opposition to consuming whereas driving, however it might result in careless driving expenses if it distracts you. This carries a most penalty of £5,000, three to 9 factors in your licence and a discretionary driving disqualification. To remain secure, eat when stationary, particularly in unhealthy climate the place stopping distances are longer.
Smoking whereas driving
It’s unlawful to smoke in personal autos with anybody underneath 18 or in firm autos. In the event you use a non-public automobile for enterprise often, smoking is allowed. Nevertheless, smoking can nonetheless be a distraction, probably resulting in a careless driving cost.
Driving with snow in your automobile
While it’s not unlawful to drive with snow in your automobile within the UK, the Freeway Code states that it’s essential to be capable to see out of each window in your car. If snow in your home windows is inflicting your visibility to be diminished then this may very well be deemed as harmful driving, which positively is unlawful. You need to clear any snow off the roof additionally, as this may slide over your home windows and block your view, or fly off and hit one other street person.
Driving with the inside lights on
Many consider it’s unlawful to drive with inside lights on, however there’s no legislation in opposition to it. Nevertheless, at night time, it might trigger distractions or impair imaginative and prescient. If deemed a think about careless driving, you can face a cost.
Driving round a roundabout 3 times
No, lacking your exit on a roundabout isn’t unlawful. Nevertheless, it’s vital to plan your path to keep away from pointless circling, which may very well be seen as careless driving. Don’t fear for those who miss it—simply take it the following time after going again across the roundabout safely.
Having decrease tyre strain throughout winter
Reducing tyre strain in winter for higher traction is a delusion. Actually, it might really enhance stopping distances, trigger extra skidding, and cut back gas effectivity. As a substitute, guarantee your tyres are on the really helpful strain for safer winter driving.
The AA shares the significance of not being misled by frequent driving myths:
“Many drivers unknowingly consider in these myths, which may result in unsafe habits and even authorized hassle. It’s important to know the details—whether or not it’s sticking to hurry limits or avoiding distractions like consuming whereas driving. Staying knowledgeable helps preserve everybody safer on the street.”
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