So it may not quite “feel like years since it’s been here” but after the hottest June in history, the last couple of weeks have certainly brought us back to reality with a bump. The first few days in July have been cold, rainy and miserable in many parts of the country. However, this looks set to change in the coming days so it’s a good time to focus on what motoring laws you may need to be mindful of.
The Highway Code, which comprises essential information to promote road safety, has specific guidance on how to approach certain weather conditions.
Ignoring the Highway Code alone is not an offence in itself. However, not following the Code could be tantamount to other offences.
In some scenarios, if your driving falls below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver (section 3ZA(2) of the Road Traffic Act 1988), you could find yourself with facing a careless driving charge also known as driving without due care. The penalty for this offence includes an unlimited fine (based on your relevant weekly income) and between 3-9 penalty points endorsed on your licence or even a disqualification from driving.
Hot Weather
As we will another heatwave to arrive in the UK you may want to take note of the relevant Highway Code Rule 237. This warns about heat causing drowsiness; to avoid this, it is recommended that you ventilate your vehicle e.g. opening your windows.
The Highway Code also warns about the road surface possibly being softened in hot weather and if it rains after a dry spell, extra care should be taken in these conditions as it might become more slippery.
Drivers who wear spectacles will already have an awareness of the need to drive with the correct prescription glasses.
Rule 92 specifies;
“ You MUST be able to read a vehicle number plate, in good daylight, from a distance of 20 metres (or 20.5 metres where the old style number plate is used). If you need to wear glasses (or contact lenses) to do this, you MUST wear them at all times while driving. The police have the power to require a driver to undertake an eyesight test.”
However, if you are not used to carrying your specs with you all the time, it may slip your mind to ensure that you wear sunglasses in bright and sunny weather.
Rule 93 states “Slow down, and if necessary stop, if you are dazzled by bright sunlight.”
Therefore if an accident occurs due to you being dazzled by bright light and you were not wearing suitable eyewear, it is highly likely that this will be classed as careless driving as a minimum offence.
Although the role of the police is certainly not to control your fashion choices, the Highway Code also specifies at Rule 97:
Rule 97
Before setting off.
You SHOULD ensure that
- clothing and footwear do not prevent you using the controls in the correct manner
So if your flip flops get caught on the pedals causing you to lose control of your vehicle, this will likely lead to prosecution.
You may think your pet’s penchant for sticking their head in the breeze is as cute as can be and actually a good way for them to cool down. However, if your furry friend is not suitably restrained this will be another breach of the Highway Code.
Rule 57
When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.
So while sunshine can be a great mood booster, we hope these tips help to avoid a case of the doldrums caused by a hot weather related motoring prosecution!
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