Drivers face huge £5,000 fine for mistake when driving in rain

British motorists are at risk of being slapped with a massive £5,000 fine for making a crucial mistake when travelling in the rain. Experts at Swansway Motor Group admit driving over puddles and splashing pedestrians could come back to bite road users. Drivers face huge fines and even penalty points on their driving licence due to the little-known driving rule .

The warning comes as Storm Ashley batters the UK with 80mph winds ripping through the UK. The Environment Agency has 20 flood warnings in place on Monday after heavy rain on Sunday evening. The River Severn has also burst its banks which has led to delays, road closures and flooding in Worcestershire.



Swansway Motor Group said: “Many motorists are unaware that splashing pedestrians by driving through puddles is not only inconsiderate but can also result in severe penalties. “According to the Road Traffic Act 1988, this behaviour falls under ‘driving without reasonable consideration for other persons.’ “Put simply, drivers can be fined up to £5,000 if their actions are deemed reckless or deliberately inconsiderate.

What’s worse, drivers could face between three and nine penalty points on their licence if they’re caught by police." "While it might seem like an innocent mistake, splashing pedestrians can be seen as a clear act of impatience or even aggression.” According to breakdown experts and car insurance specialists at the RAC , road users should be issued a £100 fixed penalty notice and three penalty points for breaking the rule.

However, the £5,000 charge could be issued to road users through the courts if individuals refuse to pay the £100 charge. The maximum penalty may also be awarded if motorists are found to have been acting in a way considered to be an act of “incompetence, selfishness, impatience, and aggressiveness”. Swansway Motor Group added: “With the rainy weather predicted in the UK this week, including heavy showers and slippery roads, drivers should be extra cautious.

“Wet conditions already pose hazards like reduced visibility and longer stopping distances. But it’s all-too-easy to forget the risk of splashing pedestrians by speeding through puddles. “This can easily happen when drivers aren’t mindful of the road surface and weather conditions.

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