Drivers encounter loads of recommendation—some correct, some not—on the right way to navigate the roads safely. Nonetheless, many widespread misconceptions can result in unsafe practices and even authorized points. From velocity limits to consuming alcohol-free beer behind the wheel, it’s time to set the file straight.
To assist UK motorists keep away from fines, specialists at The AA have separated driving truth from fiction debunking 10 widespread driving myths and offered info to assist drivers keep protected and knowledgeable on the highway.
Driving 10% over the velocity restrict with out breaking the legislation
It’s a fable which you could legally drive 10% over the velocity restrict. Whereas some police could permit for speedometer inaccuracies, enforcement varies. The Nationwide Police Chief’s Council suggests ticketing solely when exceeding the restrict by 10% plus 2mph (e.g driving 35 mph on a highway with a 30 mph restrict), however this isn’t assured. Finest recommendation: persist with the restrict.
Consuming alcohol as a passenger in a automobile
It’s authorized to drink alcohol as a passenger, however not at all times advisable. Passengers can help safer driving. If supervising a learner driver, you could keep sober and keep away from utilizing your telephone. You completely can’t drink alcohol whereas driving, as even one drink may put you over the authorized drink-driving restrict.
Consuming alcohol-free beer whereas driving
It’s not unlawful to drink alcohol-free beer whereas driving within the UK, but when it resembles an alcoholic beverage, you should still be stopped by police. To keep away from confusion and delays, it’s greatest to attend till after your journey to drink.
Sucking a penny will idiot a breathalyser
There’s a fable that sucking on pennies can cheat a breathalyser, however it’s false and unlawful to aim. Chewing garlic, citrus, or mints gained’t work both. The message is straightforward: don’t drink and drive.
Consuming whereas driving
There’s no particular legislation in opposition to consuming whereas driving, however it will possibly result in careless driving costs if it distracts you. This carries a most penalty of £5,000, three to 9 factors in your licence and a discretionary driving disqualification. To remain protected, eat when stationary, particularly in dangerous climate the place stopping distances are longer.
Smoking whereas driving
It’s unlawful to smoke in personal automobiles with anybody beneath 18 or in firm automobiles. Should you use a non-public automobile for enterprise sometimes, smoking is allowed. Nonetheless, smoking can nonetheless be a distraction, doubtlessly resulting in a careless driving cost.
Driving with snow in your automobile
While it’s not unlawful to drive with snow in your automobile within the UK, the Freeway Code states that you could have the ability to see out of each window in your automobile. If snow in your home windows is inflicting your visibility to be decreased then this may very well be deemed as harmful driving, which undoubtedly is prohibited. You need to clear any snow off the roof additionally, as this may slide over your home windows and block your view, or fly off and hit one other highway consumer.
Driving with the inside lights on
Many imagine it’s unlawful to drive with inside lights on, however there’s no legislation in opposition to it. Nonetheless, at evening, it will possibly trigger distractions or impair imaginative and prescient. If deemed a think about careless driving, you could possibly face a cost.
Driving round a roundabout 3 times
No, lacking your exit on a roundabout isn’t unlawful. Nonetheless, it’s vital to plan your path to keep away from pointless circling, which may very well be seen as careless driving. Don’t fear for those who miss it—simply take it the subsequent time after going again across the roundabout safely.
Having decrease tyre stress throughout winter
Reducing tyre stress in winter for higher traction is a fable. In truth, it will possibly really improve stopping distances, trigger extra skidding, and cut back gasoline effectivity. As a substitute, guarantee your tyres are on the beneficial stress for safer winter driving.
The AA shares the significance of not being misled by widespread driving myths:
“Many drivers unknowingly imagine in these myths, which may result in unsafe habits and even authorized bother. It’s important to know the information—whether or not it’s sticking to hurry limits or avoiding distractions like consuming whereas driving. Staying knowledgeable helps preserve everybody safer on the highway.”
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