A common 'thank you' gesture could lead to a £1,000 fine and three penalty points for drivers, a motoring expert has warned.
Julie Daniels, from Comparethemarket, says that simply taking your hands off the steering wheel even for a quick 'thank you' wave to a fellow driver is a fineable offence. Around 60% of drivers admit to using this gesture.
She told Devon Live about some "unofficial rules" of the road which could land you with a hefty bill. She also pointed out what the Highway Code says.
Read More: Drivers warned of £100 fines due to little known car tyre rule
"Our research shows waving to say thank you is the most common driving courtesy, as over 60% of drivers admit to doing so," said Julie. "However, they may not realise that they are risking a £1,000 fine and three penalty points by doing so.
"The Highway Code 2 states you should drive with both hands on the wheel wherever possible, to ensure drivers are always in full control of the vehicle. If you are looking to thank other drivers for any reason, do so in a safe - and legal - manner, such as getting your passenger to wave on your behalf."
Julie also warned against alerting other road users about upcoming speed lights as it could end up costing you another £1,000. She said: "It may feel like nothing more than decent etiquette, but alerting other drivers of upcoming speed traps, such as mobile speed camera vans, puts drivers at risk of a fine of up to £1,000.
"The Highway Code 1 clearly states drivers should only flash their headlights to let other road users know that you’re there. Alerting other drivers of mobile speed camera vans is interfering with police duties, which is an offence under section 89 of the Police Act - so you not only risk a fine, but also the safety of other road users."
Read Next:
Drivers could face £2,500 fines for having hats, gloves and ice scrapers in car
Speed camera myths busted including flashing headlights, '10% rule' and obstructing vans
Highway Code rule changes all drivers need to know to avoid fines and points on licence
The DVLA driving licence rule that applies to all motorists over 70
Drivers warned of wing mirror mistake that is an 'open invitation' to thieves
