Motorists getting into the spooky spirit this Halloween are being warned they could be fined for decorating their cars if they’re not careful.
The automotive experts at LeaseLoco.comhave shared a list of things drivers could be fined for this Halloween.
Those wanting to mark the occasion, dress up and even decorate their vehicles are being reminded to keep road safety a top priority.
Decorations that obstruct the view of the road or cover number plates can land drivers with a hefty fine and points on their licence.
Drivers are also being warned to avoid driving in any Halloween costumes that restrict their ability to drive safely, with rule 97 of The Highway Code clearly stating that drivers need to ensure clothing and footwear do not prevent them from using the controls in the correct manner.
John Wilmot, CEO and founder of car leasing deals site LeaseLoco.com said: “Halloween is coming up and people will be getting ready to embrace the spooky season, dress up and even head to Halloween parties.
“It’s a fun time of year, but drivers should be aware that they can end up with fines and points on their licence if they’re not careful.
“If you’re going all out and adding some decorations to your car or van, you’ll want to make sure it doesn’t block your view of the road or cover your number plate. You also need to stay away from using blue lights, as this is something that only emergency services can have.
“Those driving to Halloween parties dressed up should check that their costumes don’t impact their ability to drive properly and safely either.
“By all means, get into the Halloween spirit, but make sure your costume and car decorations don’t compromise your safety, or anyone else’s.”
Fines you could face this Halloween:
Obstruction of view
Covering windows with decorations like fake spider webs and placing things on the dashboard can affect your view of the road. Under the Highway Code, failure to have a clear and proper view while driving can result in a £1,000 fine and 3 points on your driving licence.
Decorated number plate
Number plates should always be visible and clearly show your registration number, so avoid putting decorations on or near them at all costs. If your number plate isn’t visible, you could be fined up to £1,000.
Using blue lights
If you’re adding lights to your car this Halloween, you’ll want to stay away from using blue lights to avoid drivers confusing you with a police car or ambulance. According to The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989, no cars, other than emergency service vehicles, can have a flashing blue light. This means you cannot fit a flashing blue light, a blue strobe, or anything that looks like one.
Taking pictures of decorations
Drivers should avoid the temptation to take a picture of any outlandish decorations they may come across while on their journeys. Using a phone behind the wheel is not only extremely dangerous, but it can also land you with a fine of up to £1,000 and, in some cases, get you banned from driving.
Driving in your costume
It’s not illegal to drive in a costume, but Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that drivers need to ensure clothing and footwear do not prevent them from using the controls in the correct manner. Failing to abide by this rule can be considered careless driving, resulting in unlimited fines and three to nine penalty points
