3 hours Ago By [email protected] (Paige Freshwater)
While everyone knows you shouldn't drive with cracks or mist covering your windscreen , many forget about the dangers their air fresheners can cause. The Highway Code states motorists must always have a clear and complete view of the road and traffic ahead while driving. Those caught driving with their view obstructed could face a £1,000 fine, three penalty points, and discretionary disqualification.
For those operating goods and commercial vehicles , such as buses and coaches, the punishment is even greater, with the fine escalating to £2,500. In more severe cases, motorists could be charged with careless or inconsiderate driving if it is demonstrated that their driving fell below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver. It prompted driving theory test expert Annie, who is known as @theorytestpratice on TikTok, to share a warning about the dangers they can cause.
In her video, she asked her followers: "Can you tell me what's the danger of having things hanging from your mirror?" Commenting on her video, one user said: "It will distract your attention. It will block your view." Another user added: "Obstruction for observation you have to swivel your head to see cyclist and motorcycles.
" A third user said: "visibility will be poor and restricted hard to see obstructing your view." One more user added: "Blocking your vision so it’s not safe otherwise you can’t see oncoming vehicles." Following up, Annie said: "It's important to keep windows clean and clear.
Anything hanging in front of you can obstruct your vision so pedestrians, cyclists or motorcyclists could be hidden from view. "You already have a reduced visibility because of the windscreen pillars on your vehicle. To see what is on the other side of your windscreen pillar clearly, you need to move your head to see either side of it.
" But it isn't only air fresheners that can obstruct your view – as Sat Navs can too. While it's not illegal to have it in the middle of the windscreen, any obstruction to the driver's view can lead to a £100 fine and three penalty points, which could escalate to £1,000 if contested in court. The government warns: "You'll also lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last two years.
You can get three penalty points if you do not have a full view of the road and traffic ahead or proper control of the vehicle. You can also be taken to court where you can be banned from driving or riding, and get a maximum fine of £1,000 (£2,500 if you're driving a lorry or bus)." Halfords issued a statement saying: "You should mount your Sat Nav in the bottom right corner of your windscreen to maximise your view of the road.
If this isn't possible, opt for the lowest point in the middle of the windscreen. Avoid placing the Sat Nav up high, as the cables can interfere with your vehicle controls. If you're using your mobile phone as a Sat Nav, a car vent holder is great if you want to keep your windscreen clear".
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