Drivers encounter loads of recommendation—some correct, some not—on how one can navigate the roads safely. Nonetheless, many widespread 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 document straight.
To assist UK motorists keep away from fines, specialists at The AA have separated driving truth from fiction debunking 10 widespread driving myths and supplied info to assist drivers keep secure and knowledgeable on the highway.
Driving 10% over the pace restrict with out breaking the regulation
It’s a delusion you could legally drive 10% over the pace restrict. Whereas some police could 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: persist with the restrict.
Consuming alcohol as a passenger in a automotive
It’s authorized to drink alcohol as a passenger, however not at all times advisable. Passengers can support 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.
Consuming 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 greatest to attend till after your journey to drink.
Sucking a penny will idiot a breathalyser
There’s a delusion that sucking on pennies can cheat a breathalyser, but it surely’s false and unlawful to try. Chewing garlic, citrus, or mints gained’t work both. The message is easy: don’t drink and drive.
Consuming whereas driving
There’s no particular regulation towards consuming whereas driving, however it will possibly result in careless driving fees 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 dangerous climate the place stopping distances are longer.
Smoking whereas driving
It’s unlawful to smoke in non-public autos with anybody below 18 or in firm autos. If you happen to use a non-public automotive for enterprise often, smoking is allowed. Nonetheless, smoking can nonetheless be a distraction, probably 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 have the ability 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 against the law. It’s best to 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 regulation towards it. Nonetheless, at night time, it will possibly trigger distractions or impair imaginative and prescient. If deemed a consider careless driving, you would 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 if you happen to miss it—simply take it the following time after going again across the roundabout safely.
Having decrease tyre strain throughout winter
Decreasing tyre strain in winter for higher traction is a delusion. The truth is, it will possibly truly enhance stopping distances, trigger extra skidding, and scale back gasoline effectivity. As a substitute, guarantee your tyres are on the advisable strain for safer winter driving.
The AA shares the significance of not being misled by widespread driving myths:
“Many drivers unknowingly imagine in these myths, which may 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 maintain everybody safer on the highway.”
You will discover a hyperlink to the complete research right here
