Drivers encounter loads of recommendation—some correct, some not—on the way to navigate the roads safely. Nonetheless, many widespread misconceptions can result in unsafe practices and even authorized points. From pace limits to ingesting 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 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 fable you could 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. Finest recommendation: stick with the restrict.
Ingesting alcohol as a passenger in a automobile
It’s authorized to drink alcohol as a passenger, however not all the time advisable. Passengers can support safer driving. If supervising a learner driver, you should keep sober and keep away from utilizing your cellphone. 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, however it’s false and unlawful to aim. 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 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 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. When you use a non-public automobile for enterprise sometimes, smoking is allowed. Nonetheless, smoking can nonetheless be a distraction, probably resulting in a careless driving cost.
Driving with snow in your automobile
While it’s not unlawful to drive with snow in your automobile within the UK, the Freeway Code states that you should be capable to see out of each window in your automobile. If snow in your home windows is inflicting your visibility to be diminished then this might be deemed as harmful driving, which undoubtedly is prohibited. 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 consumer.
Driving with the inside lights on
Many consider it’s unlawful to drive with inside lights on, however there’s no regulation in opposition to it. Nonetheless, at night time, it might trigger distractions or impair imaginative and prescient. If deemed a consider careless driving, you can face a cost.
Driving round a roundabout thrice
No, lacking your exit on a roundabout isn’t unlawful. Nonetheless, it’s necessary to plan your path to keep away from pointless circling, which might be seen as careless driving. Don’t fear for those who miss it—simply take it the following time after going again across the roundabout safely.
Having decrease tyre strain throughout winter
Reducing tyre strain in winter for higher traction is a fable. Actually, it might truly improve stopping distances, trigger extra skidding, and cut back gasoline effectivity. As an alternative, guarantee your tyres are on the really useful strain for safer winter driving.
The AA shares the significance of not being misled by widespread driving myths:
“Many drivers unknowingly consider in these myths, which might result in unsafe habits and even authorized bother. It’s important to know the info—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 total examine right here
