1 week Ago By Jack Mortimer
Drivers have been warned not to break a lesser-known rule in the coming days as temperatures are due to drop. As November progresses and the days grow shorter, some parts of the country could experience snow in the early parts of next week. However Liam Barnes, manager of the private number plate site TopReg , has warned drivers to never leave their car running unattended in a bid to warm up the interior, no matter how low the temperature .
He warned: "While properly defrosting your car is crucial during cold weather , many drivers are unaware that they could be committing a crime if they’re doing it incorrectly on a public road. "Under the Road Traffic Act 1998 it is an illegal offence to leave your engine on whilst you clear away snow and ice from your vehicle on a public road. It can also result in a £20 fine .
" With motorists often in a rush on cold winter mornings, some drivers will start their vehicle up several minutes before they are due to set off to prevent having to get into a freezing car. However, it is against the law to run a vehicle's engine for a prolonged period of time without a valid reason, with the engine producing more carbon dioxide than necessary. Drivers who have left their vehicle idling on a public street could face penalties of £20, with the fine doubling if it is not paid within 28 days and reaching a maximum of £80 after a further two weeks.
Similarly, leaving a vehicle running whilst unattended can also cause a very serious risk of car crime, with criminals easily able to break in and drive off. Drivers who make a claim for a vehicle that was left with its engine running are likely to be refused by their insurer, with many featuring clauses that exclude claims made for this scenario. Instead, motorists should wrap up in clothes that provide warmth without restricting their ability to drive and give themselves a few extra minutes to let the temperature inside the vehicle rise.
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