Motorists heading for the countryside for a leisurely drive have been warned about keeping their windscreens clean, as a muddy window can result in a hefty fine.
If you're not used to driving over hilly terrains or through the woods, then you will likely not be aware of how much these conditions can dirty your vehicle. If caught with a filthy windscreen - even with a gap cleared with the wipers - this may land you with a £2,500 fine, three penalty points and even get your car taken off the road.
More and more people are venturing out into rural areas during their leisure time as the weather improves following a bitterly cold start to the year. But automotive experts at Select Car Leasing have warned this could be inadequate and land you in hot water.
The Highway Code says: "Windscreens and windows must be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision.” Breaking these rules could see you fined up to £2,500, receive three penalty points and even be banned from driving for using a car that’s in a dangerous condition.
Meanwhile, The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 state that: "All glass or other transparent material fitted to a motor vehicle shall be maintained in such condition that it does not obscure the vision of the driver while the vehicle is being driven on a road."
Graham Conway, managing director of Select Car Leasing said: "While at first glance this looks like a typical vehicle returning from a day out on country roads, there is a potential problem in the eyes of the law.
"Windows must be kept clear at all times to ensure a driver’s vision isn’t impaired, and that includes keeping them free from mud and dirt. So even if you have used your wiper and screenwash to create a gap, your vehicle may still be considered to be in an ‘unroadworthy state’ and therefore dangerous.”
He continued: "With many UK roads covered in dirt due to lingering grit from a recent spell of snow and ice, plus widespread rain creating mud, it’s crucial to carry out some basic safety checks before you set off.
"It’s well worth carrying a bottle of water and a sponge or squeegee in the boot, so you can give all of your windows a decent clean before getting behind the wheel.
"Another thing to consider is keeping your number plate free of muck, too. This is something police have been cracking down on recently.
"Anyone caught with a plate that’s hard to read due to being dirty can be fined anything between £100 and £1,000.
"This means that an innocent family day out in the country could turn into a very expensive one, with the potential for a £3,500 fine and the loss of your licence.”
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