2 weeks Ago By Jack Mortimer
Drivers have been urged to protect their car ahead of Bonfire Night in order to prevent the risk of a £1,000 fine and accidents. Whilst Bonfire Night is often seen as an evening of spectacular firework displays and fire pits, the typical activities that take place could leave nearby vehicles covered in debris . Alex Hynes, Service Manager at Dick Lovett , highlighted that drivers should avoid setting off without cleaning the debris off their vehicle after the big night.
He advised: "It’s vital that drivers take extra precaution to protect their windscreens from debris this Bonfire Night - especially after such a year of continuously unpredictable weather. "While drivers might not feel responsible for reduced visibility from Bonfire Night debris, especially if they’re not actually attending a display, drivers have a legal responsibility to ensure their vehicle is always in a roadworthy condition ." Despite looking impressive, fireworks can leave debris that, in weather conditions such as wind, can spread over long distances and may turn into a paste-like substance when mixed with rain.
In addition to making a car look unsightly, any debris that ends up on the vehicle's windows could limit the driver's view of their surroundings, increasing the risk of serious accidents. Drivers with a blocked view of the road could also face fines of up to £1,000 and three penalty points on their licence. To prevent serious penalties, Dick Lovett recommended that motorists keep their vehicle covered during Bonfire Night.
Whilst drivers are able to buy a full vehicle cover for as little as £15, smaller covers designed to fit the windscreen are even more affordable. Alternatively, drivers thinking about attending a Bonfire Night event have been urged to avoid parking too closely to the venue, which could increase the risk of debris landing on the car. Motorists who are planning to travel during Bonfire Night have also been advised to stay calm and concentrate on the roads throughout their journey.
Whilst the noise and colours of a firework display can be particularly enticing, they can very easily distract drivers from their surroundings. Those that fail to focus on the roads and have an accident as a result could be charged with careless driving, leading to a £100 on-the-spot fine and three points..
