Drivers getting into the festive spirit could be hammered with massive fines this month simply by bringing home a Christmas tree.
With Christmas less than two weeks away, Britons will be keen to get their decorations up in time for the holiday season.
However, motorists could be hit with an enormous £5,000 if they decide to drive home with a Christmas tree in or on top of their car.
Rule 98 of the Highway Code states that drivers must not overload their vehicle or trailer and not tow a weight greater than that recommended by the manufacturer.
Drivers could breach a Highway Code rule by bringing a Christmas tree home
PA
While going to pick out the Christmas tree can be a fun tradition, it could lead to drivers being hit with huge fines if done incorrectly.
The Highway Code also outlines how motorists should secure their load and must not stick out dangerously.
It adds: “Make sure any heavy or sharp objects and any animals are secured safely. If there is a collision, they might hit someone inside the vehicle and cause serious injury.”
People could be found to be driving in a careless or inconsiderate manner when they are carrying a Christmas tree.
The lightest punishment for this is a £100 fine and three penalty points on their driving licence.
In extreme cases where the incident is taken to court, they could face a fine of up to £5,000, as well as being disqualified from driving.
Experts suggest that drivers should take multiple people with them if they are wanting to pick out a large tree, which may see drivers struggle with the size.
Motorists should also drive slower if they are transporting a tree on the roof and be careful when braking.
It is imperative that drivers securely attach their tree to the car as it could cause carnage for all road users if it were to fall off onto the road.
One of the most common tools used to transport a Christmas tree is bungee cords, although some experts are warning against their use.
A spokesperson for ALA Insurance said: “This is because the cords do not absorb shock properly which means that the load can easily shift.
“Slipped cords can also recoil at high speeds, causing serious injury or damage to your car.”
If people do intend to take the tree home, they should cover the roof with an old blanket and strap the tree in at the front, in the middle and at the back.
The straps should then be run through the door and not through the window, with proper webbing helping drivers reduce any damage to their window seals.
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Experts have warned about transporting Christmas trees using cables
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Drivers could instead opt for a roof rack as it will allow them to transport the tree more securely and protect the ornament from additional damage.