Why little-known rule could mean drivers facing fines of up to £5k this summer

DRIVERS have been warned about a little-known Highway Code rule that could cost them a fine of up to £5,000 this summer.

With people still dealing with the high cost of living, many drivers are less keen to use the air-con function in their cars to help save money on fuel.

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However, air conditioning or lack of it could see drivers punished under Highway Code Rule 237: “Keep your vehicle well ventilated to avoid drowsiness.

Most drivers will be aware of how easy it is to become heavy-eyed behind the wheel, particularly on longer journeys.

But, not everyone will know that they are breaking a direct rule of the road, and could be facing severe consequences as a result.

The rule came into force to make sure that drivers do everything practicable to avoid becoming drowsy when driving.

In many cases, a breach of the Highway Code results in a £100 on-the-spot fine and three points on your licence.

But if the incident goes to court, the penalty can jump to £5,000, nine penalty points – and even a driving ban.

The government states: “Many of the rules in the Code are legal requirements, and if you disobey these rules, you are committing a criminal offence.

“You may be fined, given penalty points on your licence or be disqualified from driving. In the most serious cases, you may be sent to prison.”

Drivers have also been warned about bright sunlight during the summer months.

If the sun shines in your eyes and causes you to momentarily take your eyes off the road, a police officer could claim that you were “driving without due care and attention”.

According to the same Rule 237 of the Highway Code, drivers need to slow down or pull over if they are “dazzled by bright sunlight”.

This comes after drivers were warned that running out of petrol could cost them a £5,000 fine and nine penalty points.

Plus, drivers are just realising that they could be fined for using a parent and child bay – even if they have a kid with them.