THESE are the three parts of your car which should never be covered in snow – or you could land with a fine of up to £1,000.
It is not uncommon to wake up and find your car wearing a blanket of snow, but it is important to be aware of the laws around it.
AlamyThese are the three parts of your car which should never be covered in snow[/caption]
While it is completely legal to drive around in a car that’s covered with snow, it is imperative to remove snow from some of the car parts that help to see the driver properly while driving.
It is a law to drive a car with clean and visible lights, especially in winter and during snowfall.
The grey and gloomy weather can cause low visibility on the roads – and it becomes even more important to drive with side lights and dipped lights for other drivers to see you.
It is also important to check all the lights of the car are functioning.
More importantly, it is essential to drive a car with clean rearview mirrors,
They are likely to get covered with snow, but it is important to clear them out before heading for a drive to get a clear vision of your car’s surroundings.
It is also very crucial to remove any snow from your car’s number plate.
Number plates are often used to identify and mark vehicles, especially during serious accidents or dangerous hit-and-run cases.
It also allows cars to be found in case of theft or other illegal scenarios.
If you don’t adhere to these rules you could get a £60 fine – which could be increased to £1000 in situations – and three penalty points on your licence.
Also, honking at cars this festive season could land you with a fine of up to £1000, drivers have been warned.
The traffic at Christmas time is always heavier and it is likely to cause frustration for drivers, but beeping your horn is not a smart option anymore.
It is best to remember the “Christmas Calm Rule” for drivers to avoid paying unnecessary penalties this winter.
A Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of £30 can be issued for illegal use of a car horn, like using it at night in anger, or when there is no genuine danger from their driving.
If drivers don’t agree with an FPN being issued, they can challenge the decision in court.
However, losing could see an increase in the fine amount up to £1,000.