Drivers encounter loads of recommendation—some correct, some not—on methods to navigate the roads safely. Nevertheless, 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 document 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 supplied info to assist drivers keep protected and knowledgeable on the highway.
Driving 10% over the velocity restrict with out breaking the regulation
It’s a delusion that you may legally drive 10% over the velocity 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: follow the restrict.
Consuming alcohol as a passenger in a automobile
It’s authorized to drink alcohol as a passenger, however not all the time advisable. Passengers can help safer driving. If supervising a learner driver, you will need 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.
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, 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 regulation in opposition to consuming whereas driving, however it could result in careless driving prices 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 personal autos with anybody beneath 18 or in firm autos. Should you use a non-public automobile 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 automobile
While it’s not unlawful to drive with snow in your automobile within the UK, the Freeway Code states that you will need to be capable of see out of each window in your automobile. 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. 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 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. Nevertheless, at night time, it could trigger distractions or impair imaginative and prescient. If deemed a think about careless driving, you might face a cost.
Driving round a roundabout thrice
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 if you happen to miss it—simply take it the subsequent 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 could really improve stopping distances, trigger extra skidding, and scale 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 frequent driving myths:
“Many drivers unknowingly consider in these myths, which may 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 hold everybody safer on the highway.”
You will discover a hyperlink to the total examine right here
