Drivers in Wales are being urged to check key Highway Code rules before setting off this August Bank Holiday, with some oversights potentially leading to fines of up to £5,000. Roads are anticipated to be particularly congested, with an estimated 20 million people venturing out over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Five lesser-known rules highlighted
Keith Hawes, director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, is highlighting five lesser-known Highway Code regulations that drivers could unwittingly breach. Certain regulations carry substantial penalties — one simple oversight could result in fines of up to £5,000.
Hawes said: "With roads expected to be especially busy this August Bank Holiday, and many travellers switching to cars due to rail disruption, it's more important than ever that drivers prepare properly before setting off."
Driving while fatigued
The first issue Hawes is urging motorists to consider is the danger of driving while fatigued. This attracts an unlimited fine, given that tiredness is thought to be a contributing factor in approximately 10 to 20% of all collisions.
Rule 91 of the Highway Code stipulates you must "not begin a journey if you are tired" and should ensure you get "sufficient sleep before embarking on a long journey". Should you be found to have driven while tired and caused a collision, this falls within the category of dangerous driving. Upon conviction, you could face an unlimited fine, a driving disqualification, and, in the most severe instances, up to 14 years' imprisonment.
Unsecured pets and overloading
The second most costly error you can make is travelling with an unsecured pet in your vehicle, which can result in a substantial fine of up to £5,000. Rule 57 of the Highway Code stipulates that pets must be safely restrained to prevent them from distracting the driver or causing injury to themselves or others in the event of an emergency stop. Be sure to consult the Government website to determine the most suitable method of restraint for your particular animal.
When heading off for a weekend break, overpacking can be difficult to resist — however, one compelling reason to exercise caution when loading your vehicle is that it could land you with a fine of up to £300. Surpassing your car's recommended load capacity can render the vehicle harder to handle, increase fuel consumption, and put excessive strain on the tyres and suspension, potentially raising the risk of a collision.
Under Rule 98 of the Highway Code, exceeding this limit is prohibited, and doing so can result in a £300 fine and three penalty points on your licence. Should an accident occur as a direct consequence, it could even invalidate your insurance policy.
Hawes said: "Simple oversights such as driving whilst tired, failing to secure pets or overloading the vehicle can lead to costly penalties and, more importantly, put lives at risk."
"Plan your journey in advance, take regular breaks and make sure everything in your vehicle is safe and secure before travelling."
