Millions of UK drivers could be slapped with a £340 fine for overlooking a fundamental rule of the road, experts warn. The penalty, which includes three penalty points, targets those who neglect a basic safety measure while behind the wheel.
The £340 Fine You Might Not See Coming
According to motoring specialists, failing to maintain proper control of your vehicle – including not using indicators when changing lanes or turning – could land you in hot water. While most drivers associate fines with speeding or using mobile phones, this lesser-known offence catches many by surprise.
What Exactly Are Drivers Doing Wrong?
The offence falls under Rule 160 of the Highway Code, which states: "Once moving you should keep to the left, unless road signs or markings indicate otherwise. The exceptions are when you want to overtake, turn right or pass parked vehicles or pedestrians in the road."
Key mistakes that trigger fines include:
- Not signalling before changing lanes
- Failing to check mirrors before manoeuvring
- Drifting between lanes without clear intention
- Making sudden lane changes without warning
How to Avoid the Penalty
Motoring organisations advise drivers to:
- Always use indicators in advance of changing direction
- Check mirrors and blind spots before any manoeuvre
- Maintain lane discipline unless overtaking
- Plan routes to avoid last-minute lane changes
With police increasingly using dashcam footage from other motorists to issue penalties, drivers can't afford to be complacent about these basic rules.
