With new driving rules hitting the headlines – not to mention social media- it can be confusing to know what you can, and can’t, do when driving. We look at some of the year’s biggest myths and tell you whether they are fact or fiction.
Myth or Fact – You Can’t Eat or Drink While Driving
When we talk about drinking when driving we are, of course, talking about drinks of the non-alcoholic variety. Some people think it’s against the law to munch or drink while driving but, in fact, it is perfectly legal, as long as you are giving the road the attention it deserves. If you take your eyes off the road to open a bag of crisps or unscrew a lid, you risk not being in proper control of your vehicle. This is against the law and, if caught by the police, you could incur an on-the-spot fine of £100 plus three penalty points.
Myth or Fact – You Can’t Smoke While Driving
We will spare you the lectures on smoking in general, let alone in your car… Like drinking and eating, smoking isn’t illegal, as long as you are not distracted. However, if your vehicle is a work vehicle, technically, it is illegal to smoke it in. What’s more, since 2016, if you smoke in your vehicle while there are passengers under the age of 18, you will be breaking the law.
Myth or Fact – It’s Illegal To Have Open Alcohol In The Vehicle
The answer to this really depends on who is doing the drinking! It isn’t illegal for a passenger to consume alcohol while driving, as long as that passenger isn’t supervising a learner driver. The only law about alcohol and driving is that you must be under the drink driving limit, which varies in the UK. In general it is best to play it safe and don’t drink at all if you know that you will be driving soon.
Myth or Fact – It’s OK to Drive With Headphones On
Technically, it’s not illegal to drive with headphones on. However, it’s not a good idea. If you have headphones on, you are less likely to be aware of your surroundings. You could fail to hear emergency vehicle sirens or level crossing warnings, and you are at risk of failing to notice other road users.
Myth or Fact – It’s OK to Call Hands Free
The rules on using mobile phones have become more and more strict over the past few years and now it’s simple: you are not allowed to touch your phone in any way – even for a moment – while driving. If you are caught using a hand-held mobile while you are driving, you risk a £200 fine and six points on your licence. You CAN use your phone if it is fully hands free, but you can still be stopped if you are considered to be distracted while driving and calling hands free. If you are unsure, pull over and take the call – few conversations are worth risking your licence, let alone your life, over.
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