Brits Face Fines For Using A Smartwatch In The Car Even If You're In The Passenger Seat
The UK has a relatively high number of drivers, with around 75% of adults holding a driving licence.
But according to Christian Williams of BOTB's Top Motorsport Drivers, many of them don't actually know the basic laws of the road.
And it all depends on rules that the average driver doesn't think about.
"These are the less common laws that catch drivers -- the ones you probably don't think about when you're behind the wheel," Williams said.
Traffic laws can be difficult to follow, so Williams shares six of the most common laws that motorists break most often.
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(Getty Images/iStockphoto)1. Use your smartwatch
Mr Williams says drivers should remember that the device ban does not just apply to mobile phones.
"Cell phones have been banned while driving for almost 20 years, but you may not know that using a device while driving is illegal," he said.
“Specifically, the Road Traffic Regulations state that the ban applies to the possession or use of any device capable of transmitting and receiving data.
“But did you know that the law also applies to smart watches when traffic is stopped or when you stop at a red light.
"You can also be fined for using a smartwatch while supervising a learner driver!"
You can get six penalty points and a £200 fine if you keep and use a phone, satnav, tablet or any other device capable of sending and receiving data while driving a car or motorbike.
You could also face a court where you could be banned from driving or fined up to £1,000 (£2,500 if you drive a lorry or bus).
2. Don't give way to pedestrians
"Recently, the law about who has priority at intersections in the UK has changed," said Williams.
“While motorists are free to enter and exit intersections, the latest amendment to the traffic rules mandates that pedestrians have priority at intersections.
“The law has caused confusion and controversy in the UK as many drivers are unaware of the changes and continue to drive as usual.
"At the same time, pedestrians who are aware of the changes may be at risk if the driver does not stop."
Crossing a pedestrian crossing without giving way to people trying to cross it can result in a £100 fine and three points on your driving licence.
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(Getty Images/iStockphoto)3. Trade in (or buy) a car with a 74db louder exhaust.
Since modified auto parts are cheaper today, the term noise pollution is becoming more and more popular.
Mr Williams said: “You must have heard the deafening noise of a seemingly ordinary car driving down the motorway, but did you know that the UK has excessive noise laws?
“A car with an exhaust level above 74db is an offense and should be fined.
Even production cars can exceed this limit, while the average exhaust of sports cars is 80 dB higher.
4. Flash to warn other drivers about speed cameras
Although it may seem harmless and pleasant, helping other drivers can lead to trouble.
"Even if you want to help your fellow drivers avoid speeding and fines, did you know you could be fined?" asked Mr. Williams.
"That's because we thought you'd get in the way of a police officer!"
Motorists can be fined up to £1,000 for flashing their headlights to warn other drivers.
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(Getty Images/iStockphoto)5. Park against night traffic
"You probably don't think much about parking your car at night, especially after a long day at work," Williams said.
“However, if you leave your car on the side of the road at night, you have to deal with the flow of traffic so as not to confuse motorists; this is because the cars will display red at the back and white at the front.
"If you fail to comply with this law, you could be fined up to £1,000."
6. Sleeping in the car while drunk.
Mr Williams said anyone who had been drinking could be fined even if they had not been driving.
He said: “A common misconception about drink driving is that everything is fine until you actually get behind the wheel.
“However, while this is true if you are driving home in a taxi after a night out, the law states that you are not liable for driving while intoxicated.
"This means that for those looking to save on taxi fares while remaining responsible, you will still be fined £2,500 if you are caught drunk and asleep in the back seat of a car."
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