Drivers encounter loads of recommendation—some correct, some not—on how you can navigate the roads safely. Nonetheless, many frequent misconceptions can result in unsafe practices and even authorized points. From velocity 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, consultants at The AA have separated driving truth from fiction debunking 10 widespread driving myths and offered info to assist drivers keep protected and knowledgeable on the street.
Driving 10% over the velocity restrict with out breaking the regulation
It’s a delusion that you could legally drive 10% over the velocity restrict. Whereas some police could enable 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 street with a 30 mph restrict), however this isn’t assured. Finest recommendation: stick 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 assist safer driving. If supervising a learner driver, you have to keep sober and keep away from utilizing your cellphone. 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 finest 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, nevertheless it’s false and unlawful to aim. Chewing garlic, citrus, or mints gained’t work both. The message is straightforward: don’t drink and drive.
Consuming whereas driving
There’s no particular regulation in opposition to consuming whereas driving, however it may well 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 protected, eat when stationary, particularly in unhealthy climate the place stopping distances are longer.
Smoking whereas driving
It’s unlawful to smoke in personal automobiles with anybody below 18 or in firm automobiles. In case you use a personal 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 you have to have the ability to see out of each window in your automobile. If snow in your home windows is inflicting your visibility to be decreased then this might be deemed as harmful driving, which positively is unlawful. It is 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 street consumer.
Driving with the inside lights on
Many imagine it’s unlawful to drive with inside lights on, however there’s no regulation in opposition to it. Nonetheless, at night time, it may well trigger distractions or impair imaginative and prescient. If deemed a think about careless driving, you may face a cost.
Driving round a roundabout 3 times
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 might be seen as careless driving. Don’t fear if you happen to 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 delusion. The truth is, it may well really enhance stopping distances, trigger extra skidding, and scale back gasoline effectivity. As an alternative, guarantee your tyres are on the really useful 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 may result in unsafe habits and even authorized bother. 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 hold everybody safer on the street.”
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