How little-known law could land McDonald’s fans with a £200 fine just for getting a drive-thru takeaway
CUSTOMERS stopping at McDonald’s could be slapped with a £200 fine for breaking a little-known road law.
Motorists using their device whilst behind the wheel in stationary traffic – including at the Golden Arches drive-thru window – could receive the fine as well as chalk up six points on their licence, according to Britton and Time.
Using your phone while your engine is running at a drive-thru restaurant window is against the law – even if the car is stationary.
The updated legislation is double the £100 fine and three points previously in force.
However, the law does not apply to those making emergency phone calls or using their mobile phones to pay for their meal – for example through Apple Pay.
While it is seldom enforced, rule 149 of the Highway Code nonetheless states: “You MUST exercise proper control of your vehicle at all times.
“You MUST NOT use a hand-held mobile phone, or similar device, when driving or when supervising a learner driver, except to call 999 or 112 in a genuine emergency when it is unsafe or impractical to stop.”
Current legislation also states that collecting 12 points within a three year period will ban you from being behind the wheel.
For new drivers, receiving six points within 24 months of passing your test will likewise see your driving licence revoked.
Another potentially bank-breaking crime is aggressively sounding your horn – as doing so could set you back £50.
To compound your misery, those who contest the ruling in court and lose could see that figure rise astronomically to £1k.
Sounding your horn is also illegal whilst your vehicle is stationary or located in a built-up area during the fixed hours of 11.30pm to 7am.