Drivers have been warned of hefty fines during Bonfire Night for carrying fireworks which could see them slapped with a £1,000 penalty.
With Guy Fawkes Night taking place this evening, motorists face increased hazards on the roads, including distractions from bright flashes and loud bangs.
Auto experts have now caution that falling firework residue could reduce windscreen visibility, leading drivers to be hit with fines and points on licences for reckless driving.
Rhydian Jones, Confused.com car insurance expert, noted that there is an increased risk of motorists on the road being distracted during the fireworks season.
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Crashes caused by fireworks can result in £100 fine
PASmoke from bonfires can also reduce visibility, making it harder for motorists to see clearly. The warnings come after research found that one in five drivers lack confidence while driving at night with fireworks.
Under UK law, transporting fireworks illegally can result in severe penalties. Drivers caught carrying over 56kg of fireworks without proper licensing face a £300 fine and six penalty points on their licence. Additionally, their car insurance may be invalidated.
Experts advise checking with insurance providers to ensure coverage when transporting fireworks for personal use.
Meanwhile safety precautions are crucial with fireworks needing to be kept dry and away from combustible materials.
"It is also essential to store fireworks away from any combustible materials. Items such as lighters, matches, electric fan heaters, smoking materials, or electrical installations like lights should be kept far from the fireworks," warns another expert from Motor Match.
The London Fire Brigade reported a significant increase in emergency calls during the 2023 fireworks season. Over 2000 calls were made on Diwali, Halloween and Fireworks Night, marking a 13 per cent rise from the previous year. Bonfire Night alone saw a 14 per cent spike in calls, making it the busiest since 2016.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Control, Joanne Smith, said: "The period around Diwali, Halloween and Bonfire Night is always traditionally busy for us in Control, but last year's surge was unprecedented."
The Brigade also urges the public to attend organised displays rather than holding private fireworks events at home.
Meanwhile experts at Dick Lovett warned drivers about the risks of firework residue on windscreens. Ash from fireworks can mix with rain, creating a paste-like substance that impairs visibility.
To combat this, drivers are advised to cover their cars, especially windscreens, on Bonfire Night to protect them from falling embers.
Alex Hynes, Service Manager at Dick Lovett, stated: "It's vital that drivers take extra precaution to protect their windscreens from debris this Bonfire Night - especially after such a year of continuously unpredictable weather."
Motorists caught with dirty windscreens could face fines up to £1,000, points on their licence, or even a driving ban.
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Motorists are warned about reduced visibility during fireworks night
REUTERSThoroughly cleaning windscreens and wipers before driving is essential to avoid penalties and ensure road safety.
Assistant Commissioner Craig Carter advised drivers to only buy fireworks from a reputable, licensed seller and make sure they have a CE safety mark.
