A driver in Dorset has discovered that festive spirit can come with a hefty price tag after police pulled him over for decorating his entire car with Christmas fairy lights.
The Traffic Stop in Poole
The incident occurred yesterday in Poole, Dorset, where patrol officers spotted the vehicle completely covered in bright, multi-coloured lights. The car's exterior was decked out from top to bottom in a full Christmas display while it was being driven on the road.
Officers from Dorset Police stopped the driver and informed him he was committing traffic offences. The design, while celebratory, was in direct breach of the Road Traffic Regulations governing vehicle lighting.
Understanding the Law and the Fine
A spokesperson for Dorset Police explained the specific legal breach, stating: "Displaying red light to the front of a vehicle or other colours to the rear that aren't listed in Road Traffic Regulations is an offence."
This violation could result in a £50 fine for the motorist. The police also used the opportunity to remind the driver about the seriousness of celebrating Christmas before December, adding with a touch of humour: "Whilst this vehicle might look 'sleigh', the actions of this driver could land him on the naughty list."
Public Reaction to the Festive Car
Despite the legal intervention, members of the public who saw images of the car applauded the creative design. Jack Pascoe commented, "Looks cool though," while Louie Thomas added, "Aw Sergeant Grinch, I get why but it looks so good."
Another person, Michael Tarling, questioned the specifics of the law, asking: "So if he took out the red lights at the front he'd be ok?" This highlights a public curiosity about where the line is drawn for vehicle modifications.
Not all feedback was supportive of the police action. One commenter, William, expressed a common sentiment, saying, "I'm fairly certain that if I saw this car on the road my reaction would not be 'Oh my god I can see brake lights all over his car'. But 'Woah, that's a car covered in Christmas lights'. Really don't see why this is an issue."
Another, named Charlie, suggested the police should focus elsewhere, stating: "Next to solve some real crime."
This event serves as a seasonal warning to other motorists considering similar festive stunts, emphasising that road safety regulations take precedence over decorative cheer.
