Must-know winter road rules

As the darker months set in, drivers are being warned to get up to speed with seasonal driving essentials – ensuring they know all the Highway Code rules for the colder weather.

Wet leaves, icy conditions and reduced visibility pose serious threats, and car insurance experts from Quotezone.co.uk are warning motorists they could be fined up to £2,500 for not knowing or disobeying the rules.*

The Highway Code includes a number of weather-specific rules, which motorists must take note of as wet, cold weather takes over much of the country.

Motorists are being urged to adjust driving habits, including cleaning number plates, avoiding pre-heating their car, increasing stopping distances and using fog lights appropriately.

Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “Many drivers don’t realise that some Highway Code rules become even more critical in the colder months, and breaking them could result in serious fines, penalty points, or even invalidated insurance. These aren’t just safety recommendations, they’re legal requirements designed to protect all road users.

“From clearing snow and ice from your windows and number plates, to avoiding idling and using fog lights correctly, every action contributes to safer winter driving.

“Insurers expect motorists to take reasonable care of their vehicles, so if you’re involved in an accident while driving with obscured visibility or worn tyres, you could find your claim denied.

“Taking just a few extra minutes before setting off to check your car, clear your view and adjust your driving for the conditions could make all the difference.”

Here are some essential Highway Code rules to be aware of this winter:

Dirty number plates – Rule 229

Your car registration plates must be clear at all times. Winter conditions make it much harder to keep your vehicle squeaky clean, but it’s important to ensure any mud, leaves, snow or ice are cleared from your number plates, as they must be completely visible and legible from a minimum distance of 20 metres. Failure to follow this rule could land motorists with a fine of up to £2,500.

Increased stopping distances – Rule 234

When driving in wet conditions this winter, your stopping distances will be at least double those required for dry roads. Rain on roads lowers tyre grip, meaning your car will travel further before the friction brings the vehicle to a stop.

Use fog lights appropriately – Rule 236

During the colder months it’s very important to understand when you should and shouldn’t be using your fog lights. You must not use your rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced. This is because they could dazzle other drivers or even obscure your brake lights. If you are driving and the visibility improves, you must turn them off, so it’s important to be aware of the conditions and your surroundings.

Pre-heating your car – Rule 123

While it can be tempting to pre-heat your car or leave it running quickly while you nip somewhere, you could end up facing a fine. Highway Code rule 123 states you must not leave a parked vehicle unattended with the engine running, this is because car idling is a major source of air pollution. It also leaves your car vulnerable to theft that is unlikely to be covered by your insurance.

Snow on your car – Rule 229

This winter, it’s important to make sure you remove any snow on the roof of your car before taking to the road. Driving with snow on your roof is dangerous as it could slide onto your windscreen and impair visibility. If you are in an accident or stopped by the police, it could be viewed as using a motor vehicle in a dangerous condition.

Carry cold weather essentials – Rule 228

The Highway Code advises all motorists to avoid driving in severe weather if possible, but if your journey is essential then make sure you are fully equipped with cold weather essentials in case of emergency. It is advised to carry a de-icer, ice scraper, torch, boots, first-aid kit, jump leads and warm clothing when driving in turbulent weather conditions. If conditions deteriorate to a red weather warning, you may be advised not to drive unless it’s essential, so make sure to keep up to speed with the weather and any public safety announcements, as it could make claiming off your car insurance a challenge if you’re going against safety recommendations.**

As a price comparison site, Quotezone helps millions of drivers every year, compare and find savings on their car insurance.

References:
*https://www.highwaycodeuk.co.uk/penalty-table.html
**https://www.traffic.gov.scot/weather-warnings#:~:text=If%20possible%2C%20you%20should%20avoid,be%20avoided%20unless%20absolutely%20essential