As autumn arrives, many drivers in the UK risk committing this easy to avoid driving offence.
Insurance experts have warned drivers of common mistakes made in autumn. (Image: Getty)
Drivers have been warned that a commonly overlooked mistake could see them wind up with on-the-spot fines of £100, rising to £1,000, and penalty points on their licence.
Experts at the insurance comparison service Quotezone have pointed out potential pitfalls involving driver visibility, which could create dangerous driving conditions, leading to fines.
Autumn’s arrival has been marked with the traditional rustic shades of reds, oranges and yellows, but falling leaves could land you a hefty fine, according to Annexe 6 of the Highway Code.
Failing to sweep leaves or debris from your windscreen before setting off in the car could be enough for authorities to deem you to be driving in unsafe conditions.
“With autumn well on its way, drivers will start to notice their vehicles covered with fallen leaves, just one of many seasonal driving hazards we need to watch out for,” warns CEO and car insurance expert Greg Wilson.
More extreme autumn weather could also result in potential hazards created by fallen wet leaves, including slippery road surfaces and concealed potholes.
Many get behind the wheel without clearing leaves from the windscreen, which, as harmless as it might seem, can later obstruct their view and increase the risk of accidents.
Doing so could warrant a £100 on-the-spot fine, three penalty points, and invalidate your car insurance. If the penalty is challenged in court, the fine can reach up to £1,000
While clearing leaves usually only takes a few minutes, it’s easy to skip when you’re in a hurry in the morning, leaving windscreens and windows partially obstructed.
Sweeping the leaves from your windscreen could save you a £100 fine. (Image: Getty)
“If your vision is blocked, even partially, it’s considered dangerous because you may not spot hazards on the road until it’s too late,” Greg explains.
“Failing to clear leaves could also affect your insurance. If you’re involved in an accident and it’s found that your visibility was restricted, your insurer may argue that you were driving negligently.
“This could mean your claim is rejected, leaving you personally responsible for repair costs or compensation.
“Giving yourself a few extra minutes to clear the car before setting off could save you from serious financial headaches later on and help keep all road users safe this autumn.”
As well as clearing windscreens and windows, drivers need to check under the bonnet for leaf build-up, which can block drainage channels and lead to costly repairs.
It’s also important to make sure debris is cleared from the number plates so they are clearly readable – obstructions can lead to hefty fines.
