Motorists across the UK are being urged to take extra care this winter, as experts highlight a quintet of seasonal driving errors that could culminate in staggering penalties totalling up to £30,000. The stark warning comes from specialists at Rooster Car Insurance, who have detailed the costly oversights in a bid to improve road safety during the colder, darker months.
The High Cost of Careless Winter Driving
With over 102,600 followers on TikTok, a representative from Rooster Car Insurance used the platform to outline the five frequent and financially perilous mistakes. The video, posted on December 4, 2025, began with the presenter stating: "Here's how to avoid fines that could cost you up to £30,000 this winter." The advice underscores how winter conditions like darkness, rain, fog, and ice dramatically alter road safety dynamics, demanding heightened vigilance from all drivers.
1. Soaking Pedestrians Could Soak Your Wallet
The first pitfall involves something many drivers do without a second thought: driving through puddles. However, if you drench a pedestrian by ploughing through standing water, you could be hit with a fine of up to £5,000. This offence falls under Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 for careless and inconsiderate driving.
While a typical penalty is a £100 Fixed Penalty Notice and three points on your licence, more serious or deliberate incidents that go to court can result in the maximum £5,000 fine and nine penalty points. The key, according to the expert, is to slow down appropriately before encountering a puddle, a move that significantly reduces risk and likelihood of prosecution.
2. Your Footwear Choice is a Legal Matter
Many jump into their car wearing whatever shoes they have on, but this casual approach could lead to a £5,000 fine. The insurance expert clarified that unsuitable footwear is any type that prevents correct use of the vehicle's controls.
This means bulky wellies or rigid work boots can be a legal liability, as they may hinder your ability to operate pedals safely. The recommended solution is to keep a spare pair of suitable shoes, like trainers, in your car specifically for driving.
3. Faulty Lights and Fog Light Misuse
Driving with defective exterior lights is illegal and can lead to a fine of up to £1,000, plus penalty points. All lights—headlights, brake lights, and indicators—must be fully functional and clean to ensure you can see and be seen.
Separately, the misuse of fog lights carries a £30 fine. The law states that front or rear fog lights should only be used when visibility is seriously reduced, and they must be switched off once conditions improve to avoid dazzling other road users.
4. The Idle Threat of Engine Warming
Leaving your engine running unnecessarily while parked on a public road—often to warm up the car—is known as engine idling and is also an offence. Drivers can be instructed to switch off their engine and, if they refuse, may receive a £20 Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN). This fine can increase to £40 if left unpaid.
Exemptions do apply if you are stuck in traffic, are defrosting your windscreen, or if the engine is needed to operate essential equipment like a wheelchair lift.
Staying Safe and Penalty-Free This Season
The collective message from Rooster Car Insurance is one of proactive caution. The potential £30,000 figure is a cumulative worst-case scenario for multiple offences, but each individual mistake carries a significant financial and legal sting. As winter tightens its grip, ensuring your vehicle is well-maintained, adapting your driving to the conditions, and being considerate of other road users and pedestrians are the best defences against these hefty penalties.
By addressing these five common areas—puddle splashing, footwear, lights, and idling—drivers can not only avoid fines but also contribute to safer roads for everyone during the most challenging driving season.
