These Valentine’s Day mistakes could lead to £5,000 in fines
Get the details on which driving errors could mean love lost on Valentine's Day
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With millions of Brits hitting the road for Valentine’s Day, a romantic drive could quickly turn into a hefty fine or points on your licence if you aren't careful.
We've revealed the ‘mood killers’ that could catch drivers out this Valentine’s Day.
From the ‘I’m outside’ text to driving in high heels, here’s what drivers need to be careful of this Valentine’s Day.
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1. The £200 ‘I’m outside’ text
If you pull up outside your partner’s home and send a text to say you’ve arrived while the engine’s running – you’re breaking the law.
The Highway Code states that drivers must not use a handheld mobile phone while driving, which includes being stationary in traffic or waiting at the roadside unless the vehicle is safely parked with the engine switched off.
Drivers caught breaking the rules face a £200 fixed penalty notice and six penalty points on their licence.
According to our motoring expert, Ben Welham, many drivers are caught out by this: “Even if you’re pulled over and not moving, using your phone with the engine running can still count as driving,” he explains.
2. An outfit unfit for driving
Valentine’s Day is a great excuse to dress up, but you need to be careful that your outfit is functional for driving.
So, while there’s no specific law on what you wear, you might want to reconsider if your smart shoes, high heels or long dress could get in the way of the pedals.
The Highway Code states that the clothing and footwear drivers choose to wear must not prevent them from using the controls in the correct manner.
Drivers could receive a £100 on-the-spot fine and three penalty points for careless driving. If the incident is dealt with in court, penalties can reach up to a £5,000 fine, nine penalty points and even a driving ban.
“If your shoes make it harder to use the pedals properly, that’s a sign they’re not suitable for driving,” says Ben. “It’s safer to change into your fancier footwear once you’ve arrived.”
3. An oversized teddy restricting your view
Grand Valentine’s gestures look great on Instagram but can sometimes cause problems inside the car if they get in the way of your view of the road.
The Highway Code states that not having a full view of the road and traffic ahead can be treated as a driving offence, including where visibility is obstructed by items inside the car.
Drivers found to be in breach could receive a £1,000 fine and three penalty points.
“Large helium balloons, giant teddy bears and other bulky gifts that restrict your view aren’t worth the risk,” Ben explains.
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4. Holding hands while driving
Valentine’s Day affection might feel harmless but holding hands while driving can still land motorists in trouble.
The Highway Code states that drivers should ‘drive or ride with both hands on the wheel or handlebars where possible’ to help maintain full control of the vehicle.
If police believe a driver’s control has been affected, this can be treated as careless driving. Drivers could receive a £100 fixed penalty notice and three penalty points, with more serious cases dealt with in court.
5. An engine-idling goodbye
Dropping your date off or recapping a wonderful meal? Make sure you don’t leave your engine idling, or you could end up in hot water.
The Highway Code states that drivers must not allow the engine to run unnecessarily while the vehicle is stationary on a public road.
In some areas, local authorities issue a £20 fixed penalty notice (reaching up to £80 if the case goes to court) for emission offences and stationary idling under the Road Traffic Vehicle Emissions Fixed Penalty England Regulations 2002.
Valentine's Day drives
So, while the spirit of the romantic season might be preoccupying us, it's important to still pay attention to the roads.
Whether you're driving a BMW or Volkswagen, stay safe and alert - and keep the Highway Code in mind.
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