Here’s Your Guide To The Unknown Driving Fines

Christmas is the season of giving, but no one wants to receive an unexpected driving fine as a holiday surprise. With millions of journeys happening across the UK during the festive period, it’s easy to forget about some important rules of the road.

Here’s how to avoid costly mistakes and keep your holiday plans on track.

Don’t Let Your Christmas Playlist Cause Trouble

We all love a good Christmas singalong, but cranking up the volume can lead to issues you might not expect. Listening to music so loudly that it drowns out other sounds—like sirens or horns—can distract you and put others at risk.

If a police officer decides your music is affecting your driving, you could face a hefty fine, starting at £100. In serious cases, where accidents occur, this penalty can jump to £5,000. It’s not worth the risk, so keep the volume at a sensible level.

Choose Your Christmas Outfit Wisely

Festive jumpers and costumes are all part of the fun, but think twice before wearing anything behind the wheel that could affect your ability to drive.

Shoes that make it hard to use the pedals or outfits that restrict your movement or vision could see you slapped with a fine of up to £5,000 if they result in an accident.

Keep your fancy dress for the party and choose practical clothing for the journey. It’s a small change that could save you a lot of hassle—and money.

Safely Transport Your Christmas Tree

Getting a real Christmas tree home might seem straightforward, but it’s easy to overlook safety rules when strapping one to your car. Whether it’s overhanging too much, unsecured, or exceeding your car’s weight limits, a poorly transported tree can land you in trouble.

Follow these simple tips to stay within the law:

• Secure the tree properly to prevent it from moving or falling off.
• Avoid letting it stick out more than six inches beyond your car.
• Keep sharp edges covered and the tree wrapped in its netting.
• If the boot must stay open, secure it carefully and attach a reflective flag to the tree for visibility.

Failing to do this could result in a fine starting at £100, and more serious offences could lead to a £5,000 penalty or disqualification from driving.

Clear Your Car Completely on Frosty Mornings

No one enjoys de-icing their car, especially when it’s freezing outside, but rushing the job can land you in trouble. Leaving windows partially cleared—known as “portholing”—is a driving offence. Snow left on the roof can also slide down and block your view or create a hazard for others.

Make sure all windows, mirrors, lights, and number plates are fully clear of snow and ice before setting off. A quick shortcut could cost you a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points.

Park Considerately During Holiday Visits

Christmas gatherings can turn quiet streets into parking nightmares, but leaving your car in an unsafe or obstructive spot could result in a £100 fine. Pay attention to where you park to avoid blocking driveways, junctions, or emergency service routes.

Some specific areas to avoid include:

• Near school entrances or on bends.
• In front of lowered kerbs or near pedestrian crossings.
• Too close to a junction or opposite another parked vehicle.

Taking a few extra minutes to park safely will ensure you don’t leave with a fine along with your Christmas leftovers.

Stay Safe And Sensible This Holiday Season

Driving over Christmas doesn’t have to be stressful, and by following these tips, you can avoid unnecessary fines and focus on enjoying the festivities. A little extra care and planning can go a long way, keeping your journey smooth, safe, and fine-free.

So, whether you’re driving home for Christmas or heading off to visit family, stay on the right side of the law and have a happy, hassle-free holiday.