DRIVERS are being warned to take extra care over the coming bank holiday and avoid common motoring mistakes that could land them with a fine – or worse.
Good weather, the Coronation, and a rise in staycations are all likely to see an increase in cars on the road, with a flurry of social events organised around the country.
With extra bank holidays this May, UK roads are going to be extremely busyAlamy
The RAC, in partnership with INRIX, recently revealed that there will be a predicted 32 million road trips over the course of the first two May bank holidays.
And many learner drivers will be using this time as an opportunity to get in extra practice with family or friends in a private, insured vehicle.
While many learners and more experienced drivers will know and follow the rules of the road, the increased traffic and various social gatherings could see increased risks being taken.
Insurance firm, Veygo, has issued a triple warning for motorists on May bank holidays:
Taking a lift from a ‘learner’ designated driver could land you £2,500 “beer goggle” fines
Anyone using a learner driver as their ‘designated’ driver, without a sober and qualified supervising passenger in the front seat, can face fines of up to £2,500, 10 points on their licence, or a ban from driving – even though they’re not personally at the wheel.
Road rage warning
Busier roads are likely to lead to journeys taking longer or being delayed, which can be frustrating.
However, showing frustration by beeping or driving close to other learners can land you fines or points as your driving can be deemed to be careless.
A Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of £30 can be issued for illegal use of a car horn, like using it at a learner in anger 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 – but if they lose, the fine can be increased to up to £1,000.
As a learner driver, are you driving with the right insurance?
76,336 learner drivers in the UK have points on their provisional driving licence, all before passing their test – which is 2,000 more than in 2021.
According to the most recent DVLA data, the most common offence learner drivers are penalised for is driving without the right insurance, with this accounting for 40% (33,000) offences as of 16th April 2022.
Those on the wrong side of the law could land a fixed penalty of £300 and 6 penalty points if caught driving a car they are not properly insured for by the police. The car could even be seized.
James Armstrong, CEO of Veygo said: “The long weekends and extra time off present the perfect opportunity for learners to clock up some additional driving hours by hopping in the car with a family member or friend for a drive around the block or in a quiet car park.
“This extra practice is important for learners whose driving test is just around the corner as failing could mean waiting until 2024 for another test slot.”
“However, we are urging learners and their parents to check out our guidance to ensure they’re staying on the right side of the law.”