As Storm Goretti brings snow and ice warnings across the UK, motorists have been cautioned against a common morning mistake that could lead to fines. Rooster Car Insurance has highlighted that leaving an engine running to defrost a windscreen on a public road is illegal and could result in a penalty of up to £80.
The practice, known as engine idling, is prohibited under Section 42 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. According to Rooster, this law applies when a vehicle is stationary on a public road and the engine is left running unnecessarily. However, it does not apply on private driveways or supermarket car parks.
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across parts of the country. In addition, the Highway Code's Rule 123 states: 'You MUST NOT leave a parked vehicle unattended with the engine running or leave a vehicle engine running unnecessarily while that vehicle is stationary on a public road.'
Rooster explained that engine idling is discouraged due to harmful emissions, which can cause respiratory issues. The insurer noted that this is particularly important near schools, where idling cars are common while parents wait to pick up children.
The Met Office has also advised households to stock up on essential supplies in case of power outages caused by Storm Goretti. Drivers are urged to use safer methods, such as de-icer sprays or scrapers, to clear their windscreens.
