Pro Installer June 2021 - Issue 99 | Page 41

Motoring
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JUNE 2021 | 41

Motoring

SEVEN MOTORING LAWS THAT ARE COMMONLY BROKEN

Drivers are being advised to brush up on some of the most obscure motoring laws , to save them from being landed with a fine .
The motoring experts at LeaseVan . co . uk have compiled commonly broken laws that are probably lesser known to save Brits from paying out unnecessarily :
Laws to stay on the right side of : 1 . Horns
Every driver has experienced road rage on the odd occasion but be careful when expressing your anger through the form of a horn hoot . Beeping for any other
reason , other than alerting someone of your presence could land you with a fine of at least £ 30 .
2 . Flashing
Most motorists will be guilty of flashing another driver to give way or say thank you . Less will know that legally , this is a big no-no . Headlamp flashes should only be used to warn other drivers of your presence , those caught using it for other reasons could face a minimum £ 30 fine .
3 . Splashing
Splashing a pedestrian stood on the pavement with rainwater or a puddle is also an illegal offence . This is because it is illegal to drive “ without reasonable consideration for other persons ”, anyone caught showering a walker will land themselves responsible for a fine costing anywhere between £ 100 and £ 5,000 .
4 . Drugs
It is obvious that drivers will get in trouble if caught drunk or intoxicated by other means behind the wheel . Less people know that taking over the counter and prescription drugs such as diazepam , codeine , tramadol and fentanyl before driving could also cause a fine . This is because they induce drowsiness and could cause a lapse in concentration when behind the wheel .
5 . Car kipping
Those thinking of kipping on the back seat to avoid a risky drive after a beer , are best to stay where they are . The law states that those in charge of a motor vehicle should not be inebriated . Whilst technically not in charge of the vehicle , the police might see the matter differently . Those caught have been landed with a minimum of 10 points and a fine .
6 . Smartphone payments
Paying on a smartphone device is usually the easiest option for those trying to get their fast food through a drive-through window . However , unless the vehicle ’ s engine is switched off and the hand break is applied , it is illegal . Remembering a contactless card could save you a bit of cash in the long run .
7 . Parking direction
In the evening , motorists should manoeuvre the position of their car towards the direction that traffic is coming from . This is because rule 248 of the Highway Code says that after dark , “ a car must not be parked at the side of the road facing against the direction of traffic unless in a recognised parking space ”. However , it is perfectly legal during the day and probably the rule most motorists are guilty of breaking .

VAN DRIVERS URGED TO MAKE SAFETY CHECKS

The experts at LeaseVan . co . uk have revealed the basic checks every van driver should be making . A spokesperson for LeaseVan . co . uk said : “ Tradespeople can do a lot of miles in their van so making sure it ’ s safe to drive and roadworthy is important . Checks should be carried out frequently and if there any areas of concern , the best advice is to get a professional to give the vehicle the once over and resolve any safety issues .”
1 . Tyres and wheels
Checking tread , tyre pressure , looking for cuts and bulges and checking wheel nuts are secure are all important . Minimum tread depth is 1.6mm – the best way to test this is with a 20p .
2 . Battery
Check the battery is held in place and not leaking .
3 . The load
If your vehicle is leaning , then the suspension may be faulty or the van is overloaded . Check the permitted weight for your vehicle and check weight is distributed evenly .
4 . Tow bars
If you use a trailer , check the tow bar is secure , the trailer is attached safely and all the electrical connections work .
5 . Exhaust
When you start up the engine , check for excessive exhaust fumes or smoke . Make sure the exhaust is in the right position and secure .
6 . Fuel and oil
Do check brake fluid , oil , water , engine coolant , power steering fluid and screen wash regularly . If you do spot any leaks , sort them straight away .
7 . Brakes
Always check the foot and hand or parking brake works well . If you ’ re unsure , get them checked by a professional .
8 . Bodywork and doors
Doors need to shut properly and securely . Check there are no sharp edges or damage and that body panels are secure .
9 . Horn
A noisy test , but simply check it works and you can reach it easily from the driver ’ s seat .
10 . Steering
Check for excessive play in the steering system – this is when the steering wheel can be turned more than one to one and a half inches without the wheels rotating .
11 . Lights
All lights and indicators must work in the van . This includes all dashboard warning lamps like the full beam headlamp warning light and automatic braking system , and all marker lights . Make sure all lenses are present , clean and the right colour too .
12 . Mirrors and glass
Check all mirrors are aligned and secure and your view of the road isn ’ t interrupted by damaged glass or stickers .
13 . Seats and seat belts
Seatbelts need to work properly and be free from cuts and damage . Make sure seats are secure .
14 . Washers and wipers
Do check your wipers move continually when switched on and that they haven ’ t deteriorated . If they have , they may not clear your windscreen effectively . Also make sure washer fluid is topped up .