Drivers encounter loads of recommendation—some correct, some not—on methods to navigate the roads safely. Nonetheless, many frequent misconceptions can result in unsafe practices and even authorized points. From pace limits to consuming alcohol-free beer behind the wheel, it’s time to set the report straight.
To assist UK motorists keep away from fines, specialists at The AA have separated driving reality from fiction debunking 10 widespread driving myths and offered info to assist drivers keep secure and knowledgeable on the highway.
Driving 10% over the pace restrict with out breaking the legislation
It’s a fable which you can legally drive 10% over the pace restrict. Whereas some police might permit for speedometer inaccuracies, enforcement varies. The Nationwide Police Chief’s Council suggests ticketing solely when exceeding the restrict by 10% plus 2mph (e.g driving 35 mph on a highway with a 30 mph restrict), however this isn’t assured. Greatest recommendation: keep on with the restrict.
Ingesting alcohol as a passenger in a automotive
It’s authorized to drink alcohol as a passenger, however not at all times advisable. Passengers can assist safer driving. If supervising a learner driver, it’s essential to keep sober and keep away from utilizing your telephone. You completely can’t drink alcohol whereas driving, as even one drink may put you over the authorized drink-driving restrict.
Ingesting alcohol-free beer whereas driving
It’s not unlawful to drink alcohol-free beer whereas driving within the UK, but when it resembles an alcoholic beverage, you should still be stopped by police. To keep away from confusion and delays, it’s finest to attend till after your journey to drink.
Sucking a penny will idiot a breathalyser
There’s a fable that sucking on pennies can cheat a breathalyser, however it’s false and unlawful to aim. Chewing garlic, citrus, or mints received’t work both. The message is straightforward: don’t drink and drive.
Consuming whereas driving
There’s no particular legislation towards consuming whereas driving, however it may possibly result in careless driving expenses if it distracts you. This carries a most penalty of £5,000, three to 9 factors in your licence and a discretionary driving disqualification. To remain secure, eat when stationary, particularly in unhealthy climate the place stopping distances are longer.
Smoking whereas driving
It’s unlawful to smoke in non-public automobiles with anybody underneath 18 or in firm automobiles. If you happen to use a personal automotive for enterprise sometimes, smoking is allowed. Nonetheless, smoking can nonetheless be a distraction, doubtlessly resulting in a careless driving cost.
Driving with snow in your automotive
While it’s not unlawful to drive with snow in your automotive within the UK, the Freeway Code states that it’s essential to be capable to see out of each window in your car. If snow in your home windows is inflicting your visibility to be decreased then this could possibly be deemed as harmful driving, which positively is unlawful. You must clear any snow off the roof additionally, as this may slide over your home windows and block your view, or fly off and hit one other highway person.
Driving with the inside lights on
Many imagine it’s unlawful to drive with inside lights on, however there’s no legislation towards it. Nonetheless, at evening, it may possibly trigger distractions or impair imaginative and prescient. If deemed a think about careless driving, you possibly can face a cost.
Driving round a roundabout thrice
No, lacking your exit on a roundabout isn’t unlawful. Nonetheless, it’s essential to plan your path to keep away from pointless circling, which could possibly be seen as careless driving. Don’t fear in case you miss it—simply take it the subsequent time after going again across the roundabout safely.
Having decrease tyre stress throughout winter
Reducing tyre stress in winter for higher traction is a fable. Actually, it may possibly truly enhance stopping distances, trigger extra skidding, and scale back gas effectivity. As a substitute, guarantee your tyres are on the really helpful stress for safer winter driving.
The AA shares the significance of not being misled by frequent driving myths:
“Many drivers unknowingly imagine in these myths, which might result in unsafe habits and even authorized hassle. It’s important to know the information—whether or not it’s sticking to hurry limits or avoiding distractions like consuming whereas driving. Staying knowledgeable helps preserve everybody safer on the highway.”
You will discover a hyperlink to the complete research right here
