To help drivers ensure safer roads this Christmas and New Years, Harwoods (car experts), are warning drivers of 12 things they might not be aware of when driving during the festive period that could cause themselves and others harm and also land them fines up to £2,500. Please see more information below.

In addition to the list, Nick Jones, Brand Director at Harwoods Group, recommended: “Ice, snow, and freezing conditions can be intimidating for drivers, especially with the increased travel during the winter months. However, with a bit of preparation and awareness of the risks and potential penalties, there’s no need to feel uneasy. Preparing your car for winter is essential for safe driving. Check that your tyres are suitable for icy conditions, inspect critical systems like the battery and heating, and ensure your vehicle is loaded securely and correctly. By taking these simple steps, you can confidently face whatever challenges the season may bring.”

1. Driving with Open Alcohol Containers

Why People Do It: Bringing drinks to parties or festive gatherings.
Risk: Open containers can imply intent to drink while driving, even if you haven’t consumed alcohol.
Potential Fine: Risk of fines or additional checks under suspicion of drink driving.
2. Carrying Fireworks

Why People Do It: Celebrating New Year’s Eve with a personal fireworks display.
Risk: Improper storage can be considered unsafe or illegal transportation of hazardous materials.
Potential Fine: Penalties vary but can involve severe consequences if deemed a public safety hazard.
3. Using Winter Tires or Chains Improperly

Why People Do It: To prepare for icy roads during the season.
Risk: Chains or tires that are inappropriate for UK roads can cause damage and lead to penalties.
Potential Fine: £50 or more for using unsuitable equipment.
4. Driving with Ice and Snow on the Car

Why People Do It: Failing to clear the car completely due to rush or laziness.
Risk: Snow or ice falling off the roof or blocking windows can obscure your vision or endanger others.
Potential Fine: £60 and three penalty points.
5. Unrestrained Pets

Why People Do It: Bringing pets along for holiday trips or family visits.
Risk: Pets not secured with harnesses or carriers can distract the driver or become projectiles during sudden stops.
Potential Fine: £100 fine for driving without proper control.
6. Wearing Fancy Dress or Costumes

Why People Do It: Dressing as Santa or wearing festive outfits to parties.
Risk: Bulky or obstructive costumes can interfere with safe driving or seatbelt use. Masks can block peripheral vision.
Potential Fine: Up to £100 for improper seatbelt use or dangerous driving.
7. Festive Decorations (Hanging Objects)

Why People Do It: Adding a festive touch to their car with tinsel, ornaments, or wreaths.
Risk: Hanging items on the rearview mirror or dashboard can obstruct the driver’s view, violating regulations on clear visibility.
Potential Fine: £100 or more.
8. Distracted Driving with Music or Devices

Why People Do It: Playing loud holiday music, using phones for directions, or checking party messages.
Risk: Loud music can obscure emergency signals, and phone use can cause distractions.
Potential Fine: Up to £200 and six penalty points for phone use.
9. Overloaded Vehicles

Why People Do It: Transporting gifts, food, or passengers for parties or trips.
Risk: Overloading can affect vehicle handling, increase stopping distances, and lead to unsafe driving conditions.
Potential Fine: £300 and possible points on your license.
10. Overloading Roof Racks

Why People Do It: Carrying large luggage, gifts, or even small trees.
Risk: Excessive weight or improper securing can make the car unstable or create road hazards.
Potential Fine: Up to £1,000 for insecure loads.
11. Loose Christmas Trees

Why People Do It: Bringing home a freshly cut tree for decoration.
Risk: If not secured properly, it could obstruct your view or fall off, causing road hazards. This can result in fines for “dangerous loads.” More information here: https://www.harwoods.co.uk/resources/news/how-to-transport-your-christmas-tree
Potential Fine: Up to £2,500 and three points on your license.
12. Drinking Alcohol in a Parked Car

Why People Do It: Using the car as a private space during parties or gatherings.
Risk: Being “in charge of a vehicle” while over the limit can lead to a charge, even if you’re not driving.
Potential Fine: Up to £2,500 and possible driving bans.