Urgent warning to drivers who face £100 fine over common coronation activity – here’s 6 activities to avoid
DRIVERS hitting the road over the coronation weekend are being warned of some motoring offences that could get them in trouble.
Excited Brits hoping to celebrate the King’s coronation with activities such as decorating their car, could be found in breach of the Highway Code.
There are 14.6m journeys expected to take place over the coronation weekend as many people flock to celebrate the coronation of King Charles with family and friends.
Experts at Quotezone.co.uk are urging drivers to drive safely over the weekend and be aware of some activities that might unknowingly land them with a fine or penalty points on their licence.
Partygoers are being warned that decorating their car, inviting lots of people along for the journey, or overloading the car with luggage and bags, could see them in breach of the Highway Code.
Also, those planning to get dressed up for the occasion in a royal-themed costume could be at risk if their costume is deemed to be restrictive.
Rule 97 of the Highway Code states drivers must have footwear and clothing which does not prevent them from using the controls in the correct manner.
Quotezone.co.uk Founder and CEO Greg Wilson said: “With so many expected to hit the roads to celebrate with family and friends this bank holiday weekend, we want to urge drivers to think about factors such as car decorations, outfit choice and overloading their car, to help keep safe and avoid fines.
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“Driving with due care and attention when on the roads is important every day, but especially over a period of time where so many are expected to be making journeys.
“Motorists should check the roads ahead of their trip, plan the route and leave plenty of time.
“Many drivers may not think twice about decorating their car with bunting, turning up the radio to full blast to enjoy the Coronation coverage or snacking on a pack of mini quiches, but all of these can be seen as offences which could result in fines and penalty points.”
Here are the offences to avoid this bank holiday weekend:
Decorating your car
Decorating vehicles with royal bunting, flags, crowns or patriotic banners could land drivers with hefty fines.
Any decorations which block visibility, breach Highway code rules which state a driver must have a full view of the road, this offence can result in a £100 fine or more.
External car decorations can also cause problems if not properly mounted, if something fell off into the path of another car, it could be viewed as driving without due consideration.
Tuning in to Coronation Coverage
Brits who are planning to crank up the coronation tunes are advised that this could also land them in trouble.
As tempting as it is when struck in traffic, listening to the radio at a high volume could inhibit awareness of the roads and other road users.
Overloading the car
Motorists need to be mindful that they are not overloading the car with people or luggage.
Failing to keep vision free from obstruction through the front back window could land them with a fine and three penalty points on their licence.
If the car is overloaded, it could also void the insurance should anything happen.
You can check the car’s maximum weight in the vehicle handbook.
Driving under the influence
Drivers are being urged to plan their way home and think about what driving may be required the morning after.
If drinking is on the cards over the bank holiday weekend, people need to be aware of the fact that drivers may still be affected by the alcohol the next day which could affect their ability to drive safely.
The penalties for drink driving in the UK depend on the severity of the offence, but those caught should expect to receive six months in prison, an unlimited fine or a driving ban of at least 12 months.
Wearing costumes
Those wanting to dress up to mark the occasion should be aware of how their clothing can affect them behind the wheel.
Rule 97 of The Highway Code states drivers must have footwear and clothing which does not prevent them from using the controls in the correct manner.
Driving barefoot could also see them hit with a penalty for driving without due care or attention.
Coronation party food
Party food is a big part of the celebrations this bank holiday weekend.
If you are on a lengthy road trip it is advisable to pull over and picnic when it is safe to do so.
Supplying the driver with food and drink while driving could result in three penalty points and a £100 fine if the driver is considered not in proper control of the vehicle, and could be charged with careless driving.