MOTORISTS now face losing a staggering £5,000 if they get caught breaking a bizarre winter driving law.
Breaking this little-known rule could land you in trouble and set you back thousands of pounds – here’s how to not get caught out.
With winter upon us, it may seem like a good idea to wrap up in your thickest layers and comfiest footwear before setting out in your car.
But there’s a driving rule that motorists should be aware of surrounding this seemingly innocent action.
In England, motorists can be slapped with £5,000 fines if caught wearing winter boots while behind the wheel.
Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that footwear cannot prevent drivers’ ability to correctly use controls.
If your big, fluffy boots get in the way of you being able to handle your pedals safely and correctly, you could be found guilty of driving without due care and attention.
As well as the huge fine, motorists can also be handed a driving ban and nine penalty points.
Rule 97 includes the driving rules that should be taken into account “Before Setting Off”.
It states that drivers should also “know where all the controls are and how to use them”, and ensure “mirrors and seats are adjusted correctly to ensure comfort, full control, and maximum vision”.
“Head restraints are properly adjusted to reduce the risk of neck and spine injuries in the event of a collision,” it adds.
The RAC has suggested that you don’t wear shoes that have soles that are more than 10mm in thickness.
“You don’t want a sole that’s too soft or thin, shoes that are too heavy should be avoided, as well as those that limit ankle movement,” it explained.
But boots aren’t the only piece of clothing that could land you in trouble this winter.
Drivers could face a huge fine and even receive penalty points for wearing their winter coats in the car.
Motorists have been warned that driving while wearing their coats behind the wheel could result in a whopping £100 fine.
While having a coat on is not against the law, the action of removing it while on the road is considered a breach of the Highway Code.
