Updates to the Highway Code may see motorists facing hefty fines for the uncleanliness of their vehicles.
The new rule states that windscreens and windows "must be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision” or drivers will face fines up to £1,000.
If then taken to court the fine may increase to £5,000 and the driver risks receiving up to nine penalty points.
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If your vision is obscured while driving you will now be in breach of Regulation 30 of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986.
Annex 6, which has been added to the Highway Code this year, states that:
- Lights, indicators, reflectors, and number plates MUST be kept clean and clear.
- Windscreens and windows MUST be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision.
- Lights MUST be properly adjusted to prevent dazzling other road users.
- Extra attention needs to be paid to this if the vehicle is heavily loaded
Speaking to Mirror Money an AA spokesperson said: "Drivers have a legal responsibility to maintain their vehicle in a safe and roadworthy condition, so if the windscreen is dirty to such an extent that it’s affecting their ability to drive safely, they could be fined.
"However, it’s easily rectified and easy to avoid through basic cleaning and maintenance."
The Highway Code has also updated its rules in regards to pedestrians, cyclists and horses.
A new 'hierarchy of road users' puts more responsibility on drivers to protect those who are more vulnerable.
Drivers are now expected to give way to pedestrians who are waiting to cross the road. Cyclists are also advised to give way to them on shared cycle paths.
The laws surrounding phone use while driving is also being made stricter.
You can still use your phone for navigation as long as it’s in a secured area and you don’t touch it while driving, but other uses may see you receiving a £200 fine and six points on your licence.
Topics: News
Isobel Pankhurst