Drivers encounter loads of recommendation—some correct, some not—on the way to navigate the roads safely. Nevertheless, 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 file 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 supplied info to assist drivers keep protected and knowledgeable on the street.
Driving 10% over the pace restrict with out breaking the regulation
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 street with a 30 mph restrict), however this isn’t assured. Finest recommendation: follow 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, you have to keep sober and keep away from utilizing your telephone. You completely can’t drink alcohol whereas driving, as even one drink might 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, but it surely’s false and unlawful to try. 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 might 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 protected, 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 beneath 18 or in firm autos. When you use a non-public automotive for enterprise sometimes, smoking is allowed. Nevertheless, 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 you have 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 lowered then this might be deemed as harmful driving, which positively is prohibited. You must clear any snow off the roof additionally, as this will slide over your home windows and block your view, or fly off and hit one other street person.
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. Nevertheless, at night time, it might trigger distractions or impair imaginative and prescient. If deemed a consider careless driving, you may face a cost.
Driving round a roundabout 3 times
No, lacking your exit on a roundabout isn’t unlawful. Nevertheless, it’s vital to plan your path to keep away from pointless circling, which might be seen as careless driving. Don’t fear should you miss it—simply take it the subsequent time after going again across the roundabout safely.
Having decrease tyre stress throughout winter
Decreasing tyre stress in winter for higher traction is a fable. In truth, it might really improve stopping distances, trigger extra skidding, and scale back gas effectivity. As a substitute, guarantee your tyres are on the beneficial stress 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 might 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 maintain everybody safer on the street.”
You could find a hyperlink to the complete examine right here
