Experts have warned drivers that they risk facing harsh fines for breaking a major Highway Code rule during the summer months.
Rule 237 of the Code requires motorists to ensure their vehicles are “well ventilated” while travelling to help prevent driver drowsiness.
The penalty for not following the guideline rules could see drivers fined up to £1,000 for careless driving by the police.
The rule details how drivers should keep their vehicles well-ventilated to avoid losing concentration during the warmer months, as well as preventing overheating.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk
Drivers could be fined for breaking Highway Code Rule 237PAIt also warns drivers to be aware that the road surface may become soft or slippery if it rains after a dry spell.
Experts from Swansway Motor Group explained that breaking Rule 237 could result in an “on-the-spot" fine if they are deemed to be driving “carelessly” or involved in an accident due to poor ventilation.
The spokesperson said an overheated car can cause drowsiness, putting the road user in an “unsafe driving state".
They said: "Drivers must always have complete control over their vehicles in hot weather. Keeping the vehicles well-ventilated can help to combat any mistakes being made behind the wheel."
To prevent car drowsiness, drivers can either keep the window open or have the air conditioning on to avoid feeling sleepy while behind the wheel.
Other options include using driver drowsiness detection systems which monitor motorists to help prevent accidents on the road.
The tool can warn drivers if there’s something in their blind spot or in more serious cases use the automatic emergency brakes.
The system works by using cameras, eye-tracking sensors and other hardware to monitor visual cues to help detect drowsiness in a driver.
The smart technology can detect yawning frequency, eye-blinking frequency, eye-gaze movement, head movement and facial expressions.
It also monitors driving input behaviour such as steering movements, pedal use and lane deviations.
Swansway added that if drowsiness at the wheel leads to an accident where someone is seriously injured, the punishment could increase to a £5,000 fine and nine penalty points on their licence.
The experts stated that good ventilation is important for staying alert and driving safely. They added: “Without enough airflow, a car's interior can heat quickly, causing driver fatigue and slower reaction times."
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Drivers could be fined £5,000 if they cause an accident due to drowsiness
GETTYThe rule also dictates that if drivers are dazzled by bright sunlight, they should slow down and if necessary, stop.
