With Halloween approaching, millions of UK drivers are being warned of five unusual driving offences that could result in thousands in fines and penalty points.
From masks on passenger seats to Halloween stickers on your car, there are plenty of unusual laws that can get you fined between £100 and £5,000 during the spooky season.
Motoring experts at ATS Euromaster researched the most bizarre, and potentially unheard-of, driving fines, that you need to be aware of and how much they might cost you.
- Masks on passengers’ seats – up to £1,000 fine
Source: WSYR
While this Halloween prank may seem harmless, motorists are being warned that it could be viewed as a visual distraction, which will result in 3 points and a fine of £200.
If the mask obstructs your view when driving – such as when you are reversing – it could result in a hefty fine of up to £1,000.
- Halloween stickers on the back of the window– Up to £1,000 fine
Halloween stickers are popular for cars and can be put across back windows and side windows. However, doing this can result in £1,000 & 3 points for obstruction of view.
- Overloading your car with decorations – Up to £300 fine
Source: Pinterest
Not only can having Halloween decorations in your car be classed as careless driving (as the driver becomes distracted), but overloading your car above its capacity with decorations could also put a strain on the tyres and suspension. As this will increase your risk of getting into an accident, ignoring this issue could land you a fine of up to £300 and three penalty points. In the case of an accident, it could even invalidate your insurance.
It is important to familiarise yourself with your vehicle’s maximum loading weight, as each car has different specifications. Be sure to adhere to this when it comes to stocking up for Halloween.
- Wearing your costume– up to £5,000 fine
Although wearing your costume to drive in may seem harmless, it can have serious consequences. Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that you should not drive in clothing and footwear that prevents you from being able to use the controls.
Costume footwear is flimsy and can easily slip off, get caught under the pedals or snap completely and prevent you from operating the brakes in case of an emergency. This could land you a £100 on-the-spot fine, and, if taken further, a £5,000 fine, nine penalty points and potentially even a driving ban.
- Changing car headlights– £50 penalty
Many people may want to change their headlights to a ghoulish white or pumpkin orange to embrace the Halloween theme. But, while changing your headlight colours may seem like a fun way to spruce up your vehicle, it is a violation of the Highway Code and can pose legal risks. According to the Highway Code, it is illegal to have white lights at the rear of your vehicle, or red at the front. Certain colours can also indicate specific job roles, so shouldn’t be used improperly.
To check you aren’t breaking any laws when driving, make sure to check the Highway Code for all road safety and vehicle rules.
