Here starts a short series to highlight some of the least known Highway Code rules and those of which a driver may be least aware. Check out some of the offenses that could land you with a fine of up to £5000 and a collection of points neither you nor your Insurance Company will like.
1/. Sleeping in your car while inebriated, Road Traffic Legislation (Road Traffic Act 1988 c.52 Part 1, M. Vehicles, Section 5).
Irrespective of whether you are behind the wheel, in the passenger seat or the back. You might argue being asleep means you are not ‘in charge’, but the police may still prosecute.
2/. Flashing your lights to give way, Highway Code Rules 110, 111.
An incorrect signal might lead to an accident. An inappropriate signal may be confusing, dangerous & mislead other drivers for which you might be held liable. Headlight warnings should only be used to alert drivers of your presence. It is NOT an invitation to proceed.
3/. Overtaking at a pedestrian crossing, Highway Code Rule 191.
Many pedestrian crossings appear on multilane carriageways. If a car is stationary on lane one when the lights change, do not drive pass – it is illegal and understandably highly dangerous should pedestrians still be crossing.
4/. Letting animals out of the car while broken-down on the hard shoulder, Highway Code Rule 275.
The Highway Code clearly states that you must leave any animals in a broken-down vehicle when stranded on the hard shoulder. Only in an emergency should you consider letting them out. Should they cause an accident, you could be charged.
5/. Parking on the wrong side of the road at night, Highway Code Rule 248.
This is to prevent headlight dazzle for oncoming motorists and to ensure rear reflectors are not hidden.
Exeter & East Devon Advanced Drivers 