Driving experts have warned against wearing certain types of shoes whilst behind the wheel as it can result in a hefty fine.
With winter weather gripping the country, wearing the appropriate footwear when out and about is vital for avoiding slips and falls on the ice. For many, a pair of boots is the go-to as they keep you warm and provide a solid foundation for walking on dangerous surfaces.
But wearing a chunky boot can hinder your safety while driving, as it makes it easier for you to lose control of the vehicle. Not only is this dangerous, but you could also be slapped with a fine if you get into an accident.
Car leasing experts at Moneyshake have warned that this is just one of many driving laws that you may not even know you're breaking this winter.
Wearing chunky winter boots can limit the movement of your ankles, as well as the thick soles impacting control of the pedals.
Failing to wear the correct footwear while behind the wheel could be classed as driving without due care and attention. Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that "you should ensure clothing and footwear do not prevent you using the controls in the correct manner".
Eben Lovatt, CEO of Moneyshake, said: "Failure to have proper control of your vehicle could lead to a £100 on-the-spot fine and three penalty points on your licence and in more serious cases could go to court and result in a fine of up to £5,000 and disqualification."
Here are three more laws you should be aware of as the cold weather continues.
Leaving your car running to defrost
Waiting for your car to defrost on a winter morning is a common issue that motorists face.
But whilst it can be tempting to start up the car, blast heat onto the windscreen and head back inside, it could land you in trouble.
Rule 123 of the Highway Code states 'you must not leave a vehicle's engine running unnecessarily while that vehicle is stationary on a public road.'
Eben explained: "There are environmental benefits to not keeping your car engine running and as well as wasting fuel, it can also land drivers with an initial £20 fine which can rise to £40 if unpaid within the required timeframe."
Splashing pedestrians
The UK’s winter weather is sure to bring lots of rain, which can cause large puddles on the road - and the careless act of purposefully splashing pedestrians on a rainy day is deemed as inconsiderate and careless driving.
According to the Road Traffic Act 1988, it states 'if a person drives a mechanically propelled vehicle on a road or other public place without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road or place, he is guilty of an offence'.
Eben added: "Speeding up through a puddle to splash an unsuspecting pedestrian could land drivers with a fixed £100 penalty and three points on their licence and in more serious cases, nine points on your licence and a £5,000 fine – or you may be disqualified from driving altogether.
"So, although it may seem like a harmless prank, it’s worth thinking twice the next time you drive in wet conditions."
Clearing frost from your number plate
Before setting off in the winter, drivers should make sure that they clear all snow and ice from their number plate.
Rule 229 of the Highway Code states that drivers must take special care to maintain their car and ensure it is working properly, stating that lights, indicators, reflectors and number plates must be kept clean and clear.
Driving with number plates which are obscured or unreadable could risk landing a £1,000 fine, so make sure to check there’s no snow, ice or grit covering them before starting your journey.
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