Motorists have been warned they could be slapped with £2,500 fines, penalty points and even risk invalidating insurance policies for breaking Highway Code rules this winter.
Road safety specialists have warned that many drivers remain unaware of the legal responsibilities that apply in cold, dark and icy conditions and the impact this can have on driving.
Experts explained that the annual spike in rain, freezing temperatures and reduced visibility creates more hazardous driving conditions, which require drivers to pay more attention to key safety rules.
Greg Wilson, CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, said many motorists wrongly assume winter guidance in the Highway Code is optional, when several rules are legally enforceable.
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He said ignoring them could result in substantial fines, penalty points, or insurers refusing to pay out.
Mr Wilson detailed how the rules "aren't just safety advice, they're legal obligations" with something as basic as failing to clear snow from car roofs or wiping down a number plate leading to "insurers rejecting a claim after a collision".
Under Rule 229, registration plates must remain clean and legible at all times. During winter, mud and snow can quickly cover them, making regular checks essential.
Drivers have been warned they could be hit with hefty fines for breaking Highway Code rules this winter
|GETTY/PA
Failure to keep plates visible can lead to fines of up to £1,000, and where police deem the vehicle to be in a dangerous condition, the penalty can rise to £2,500 and three penalty points.
Stopping distances mark another major winter concern, with Rule 234 of the Highway Code stating that braking distances double in the wet and increase dramatically on snow and ice.
Drivers who fail to adjust their speed or who tailgate in hazardous conditions can be prosecuted for careless or dangerous driving. This can lead to fines of up to £5,000, penalty points, or a driving ban, depending on the severity.
Fog light misuse is also a regular issue during the colder months, with Rule 236 stating that rear fog lights must only be used when visibility is "seriously reduced".
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Drivers have been warned to keep number plates clear of snow while driving
| PADriving with fog lights on in normal rain or mist is illegal because it dazzles other road users and can obscure brake lights. Motorists can be fined between £50 and £100 "on-the-spot", or more if the case goes to court, Mr Wilson warned.
Another winter habit likely to cause trouble is leaving the car idling while defrosting windscreens, experts explained. Under Rule 123, leaving a vehicle unattended with the engine running can unknowingly be an offence. Drivers risk fines of £20 to £80.
The Highway Code states: "Before you set off, you MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows. You MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible."
Police may issue fines of £60 and three penalty points, but in more serious cases, they could treat the offence as using a vehicle in a dangerous condition, carrying fines up to £2,500.
Rule 236 of the Code requires rear fog lights to only be used when visibility is 'seriously reduced'
| GETTYFinally, Rule 228 instructs motorists to avoid unnecessary travel in severe weather.
Drivers who ignore red weather warnings and travel without proper preparation may find insurance claims difficult, especially if they disregarded official safety advice.
The Rule suggests that drivers should check the weather forecast before setting off and avoid travel unless it is "essential".
Mr Wilson shared: "Winter driving demands extra care. The Highway Code is clear, and ignoring it can have significant financial and safety consequences."