UK drivers warned little known rule could land them with £2,500 fine for packing the car wrong

Man packing a car

Motor experts are urging caution to drivers travelling during the summer holidays as a little known car packing rule could land families a hefty fine

PA
Georgina Cutler

By Georgina Cutler


Published: 07/07/2023

- 11:33

Updated: 07/07/2023

- 13:30

Britons are being warned about an obscure law as people prepare to travel this summer

Motor experts are urging caution to drivers travelling during the summer holidays as a little known car packing rule could land families a hefty fine.

As Britons begin travelling for their holidays, a driving safety warning has been issued about overloading cars.


Louise Thomas, a motor insurance expert at Confused.com explained that a restricted view can mean drivers are slapped with a fine of up to £2,500.

She said: "Packing for a holiday or a road trip often leads to high levels of luggage in the back of your car.

A family on a beach in Dorset

As Britons begin travelling for their holidays, a driving safety warning has been issued about overloading cars

PA

"However, a restricted view can land you a £2,500 fine and three penalty points if this is considered to be dangerous.”

The expert advises motorists that if packing becomes too tight, where possible, take another car so that the car view isn't restricted - reducing the risk of harm for the driver and others on the road.

Thomas added: “Driving in the summer can often lead to a higher number of road accidents due to multiple factors.

"For example, heavy traffic or weather conditions such as high temperatures or the sun in your eyes, can make driving this time of year particularly difficult.

"It’s always important to make sure you can drive safely and comfortably by wearing the correct eyewear for visibility and having enough ventilation in the car.

“If the worst were to happen and you break a traffic offence that causes an accident, your insurer may not pay out.

"For peace of mind, you should always check your car insurance policy before setting off for any journey this summer.”

It comes after motorists were reminded about a sunglasses rule which could see drivers hit with large fines of up to £5,000 according to the Highway Code.

One expert advises motorists that if packing becomes too tight, where possible, take another car so that the car view isn't restricted - reducing the risk of harm for the driver and others on the road

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Drivers who are caught wearing sunglasses and visors that restrict their vision are at risk of being fined or disqualified.

Despite sunglasses helping to prevent the sun from blinding drivers, the Highway Code enforces that motorists should stop or slow down when affected by sunshine.

Experts warn that while many believe sunglasses heighten road safety, they may in fact be a risk due to the blinding glare by low light and reflections from puddles or oncoming traffic.

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