Motorists are being warned that three common summer driving habits could lead to fines of up to £5,000, according to experts. TrackDays.co.uk, a driving experience provider, has highlighted rules from the Highway Code that drivers may overlook during the holiday season.
Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that clothing and footwear must not hinder vehicle control. Wearing flip-flops or sliders could violate this rule, as they may slip off, get stuck under pedals, or make braking difficult. The Driving Standards Agency recommends shoes with a sole no thicker than 10mm, good grip, and not too heavy. If a driver crashes while wearing flip-flops, they could be charged with driving without due care and attention, resulting in a £100 fine and three penalty points, or up to £5,000 in court.
Hay fever sufferers are also at risk. The NHS estimates one in four Brits experience hay fever, and symptoms like itchy eyes or sneezing can lead to dangerous driving. Taking hands off the wheel to rub eyes or sneezing could result in a charge of failing to maintain proper control, with fines up to £1,000.
Wearing sunglasses in tunnels or as dusk approaches may breach Rule 94, increasing collision risk. If an accident occurs, drivers could face fines of up to £1,000 and three penalty points. Dan Jones, operations manager at TrackDays.co.uk, said: “Ignoring lesser-known rules about flip-flops, hay fever and sunglasses could turn a sunny day into a costly one.”
