Drivers could be slapped with a £1,000 fine for breaching major Highway Code safety rule

Head restraints that have been adjusted correctly will help prevent movement in the case of a crash and could save lives, if fitted properly.

If adjusted poorly, however, the head restraint and seat will not only compromise the safety of drivers and passengers but could lead to long term injuries.

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To combat this issue, drivers have been reminded that the top of the head restraint should be as high as the top of the head, and as close to the back of the head as possible.

Drivers should adjust their seating position and the restraint to ensure there is no gap between the back of their head and the headrest.

The Highway Code also states that drivers should make sure their seats have been adjusted properly.

This will give motorists a clear view of the road ahead and offer them quicker response times in cases of emergency stops.

A correctly fitted seat will mean that the drivers' knees are not touching the steering wheel.

At the same time, drivers must ensure the wheel does not restrict their view of the dashboard and should sit as “far back as possible”.

Sitting further back can help ensure the airbag in the steering wheel opens properly and reduce the risk of injury when the bag explodes.

Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk said: “Many of us areprobably guilty of not checking that our seat, wheel and head restraint have been adjusted to be in the correct position each time we get in the car.

“Sitting incorrectly will not only compromise your safety in the event of a collision but can also cause discomfort when driving for long periods of time, and potentially lead to long-term back and neck problems.

“It’s important to follow the guidance issued in the Highway Code to be sat in the optimal driving position.

“Check that your head restraint is touching the back of your head and is as high as the top of your head too.

"The seat should be as high as possible to see the road clearly ahead, but drivers should also check they can push the clutch pedal down to the floor without stretching their body.

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“Steering wheel positioning should also be adjusted to ensure the airbag will be as effective as possible in the event of a collision - the seat should be as far back from the wheel as possible."