Most of us know the major driving laws not to break, such as speeding, drink driving snd driving with no insurance, however, there are a raft more of little know laws that could find you in hot water. In an effort help, the RAC has produced a lost of 10 laws (there a many more) that you need to be aware of.
Overtaking At Pedestrian Crossing
If you are driving up to a pedestrian crossing there is a car stopped, then do not overtake, even if it seems clear to go. The reason behind this is a pedestrian, who is about to cross, may be hidden behind the stationary car.
Flashing Your Lights To Give Way
How many times has a driver flashed another motorist to indicate they can go? The answer is loads and most of us will see it during each and every journey made. However, the Highway Code states flashing headlights should only be done to warn other driver’s of that car’s presence. The issue is that flashing can be open to interpretation and be the cause of accidents if the driver being flashed acts mistakenly.
Sleeping Whilst Drunk In Your Car
Drinking and driving is a big no no, but some people think they can sleep a nigh toff in their car rather than going home. The issue is that the police can still charge you with a drink driving offence on the basis that you are “in charge” of a vehicle whilst drunk.
Using Your Phone As A Sat Nav In An Unfixed Position
New mobile phone laws have meant, if caught using your phone behind the wheel, a fine of £200 and 6 penalty points. However, there is the issue of people using the sat nav facility on their phones. In order to use your phone as a sat nav it needs to be in a fixed cradle that is attached to your dash or windscreen (as long as it does not impair the driver’s field of vision). And then don’t touch it whilst driving. If you have to then pull off the road, apply your handbrake and turn the engine off. You don’t want your next navigated trip to be the Magistrates’ Court.
Don’t Let Animals Out Whilst Broken Down On The Hard Shoulder
The Highway Code is quite clear on this point. If you have broken down and are on the hard shoulder keep your animals in the car. Only take them out in an emergency because if they get loose and cause an accident you could be liable for a serious motoring offence.
Parking On The Wrong Side Of The Road At Night
parking your car on the wrong side of the road at night can get you a penalty charge notice. The reason behind it is the risk of dazzling oncoming drivers when you are parking or exiting and, when left, other motorists can’t see your rear, red reflectors and may cause a crash.
Driving On The Pavement
The law states you cannot drive on the pavement unless you are turning into a driveway. Driving or parking on the pavement can cause an inconvenience to pedestrians, or worse and as such is deemed as a motoring offence. In London, it is now an offence to park on the pavement, full stop.
Sounding Your Horn Between 11.30pm And 7am In A Built Up Area
Despite taxi drivers seemingly going it all the time, it is an offence to count your own in a built up area, between the hours of 11.30pm and 7am. This would also include a short “parp” to say goodbye to friends or family as you pull away.
Driving A Van At More Than 50MPH On A Single Carriageway.
This is a rule that catches many van drivers out. Just because the single carriageway my allow cars to travel at 60mph, a can is restricted to 50mph. A van driver can travel at 60mph on a dual carriageway and 70mph on a motorway.
Parking Within 10 Metres Of A Junction
Parking so close to a junction causes other road users some serious problems. They cannot see through the junction clearly and have to manoeuvre around the parked vehicle which could put them at risk of having an accident.
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
Getting in contact with Carl and Millars Solicitors is really easy. You can call him FREE on 0800 999 5535, or click here to send a confidential message.
