5 driving habits that could get you penalty points
by Fiona Taylor
Most of us associate penalty points with offences like speeding or reckless driving. There are some seemingly innocent things that can get you serious points too.
What sorts of things will get you penalty points on your driving licence? Speeding is probably the number one thing we associate with points, as well as things like driving recklessly and driving while under the influence of alcohol.
But there are other things which can also result in you getting penalty points for one reason or another. Here are six driving habits that you probably have, which you didn’t know could get you points on your licence.
Eating at the wheel
Driving without due care and attention includes anything that could distract a motorist while behind the wheel. Including eating and drinking.
Earlier this year, a YouGov study found that 64 per cent of drivers in the UK have admitted to eating something while on the road. Especially relevant was a survey that found nearly a third of drivers aged 25 to 34 said they eat while driving at least once a week.
You might think twice about eating a sandwich on the motorway if you knew you could get between three and nine points on your licence.
Have you done that? Could you have had penalty points if you had been caught?
Have a look at some other innocent things could land you in trouble.
Driving too slowly
This can often seem like a bit of a shock to some, as it’s speeding that’s normally associated with getting fines. However driving too slowly can also land you in hot water with the law. It’s classed as “inconsiderate driving”.
The Department for Transport claims that around 140 accidents a year are caused by slow drivers, and being found guilty can face up to nine points on their licence and an unlimited fine.
Splashing through puddles
Splashing pedestrians falls under section three of the Road Traffic Act 1988, which states that motorists are committing an offence by driving “without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road”.
Between 2009 and 2014, police data showed that 63 drivers were found guilty of splashing pedestrians. An offence which will often result in a fine or penalty points.
Sound familiar? Could you potentially have driven in a way that could land you with some penalty points?
Read on to find our more.
Taking prescription medicine
Driving under the influence of illegal drugs is a big and obvious no-no. Drivers need to check with their doctors if they’re okay to drive while on prescription medication. Rule 96 of the Highway Code states that drivers shouldn’t drive under the influence of drugs or medicine. This covers everything from banned drugs to potentially even cold medicine.
Ultimately if you’re found to be guilty of driving under the influence of medication, the penalties are severe.
- minimum one-year driving ban,
- an unlimited fine,
- up to six months in prison,
- a permanent criminal record.
Warning other drivers of speed cameras
Some drivers will flash their headlights at others to warn them in advance of speed traps or nearby police. However, the Highway Code specifically states that you should not “flash your headlights to convey any other message” than to alert drivers to your presence.
Consequently, notifying drivers of mobile cameras could result in you getting penalised, while the same applies to anybody who flashes their headlights to let other motorists in or out of junctions.
What do you think? Should drivers get penalty points for these everyday activities? Leave us a comment below.
Fiona Taylor
Fiona Taylor is the Sales Manager at award winning Satmo Vehicle Tracking. If you feel you need help with your fleet, want to gain back control, save some money and time then please get in touch.
