Urgent warning to everyone wearing gloves while driving this week

In light of the current chilly conditions, drivers are being cautioned about the dangers of wearing gloves while behind the wheel. While it might be tempting to stay rugged up with gloves, hats, and scarves during the commute in cold weather, doing so could potentially breach the Highway Code and increase the risk of an accident.

Special driving gloves made for the purpose are fine, but other types of winter gloves may not offer sufficient grip on the steering wheel. Removing these items as the car heats up can also become a distraction, leading to possible fines and penalty points in the event of a crash.

Experts recommend warming up the vehicle before starting your journey. Liam Barnes, manager at TopReg, explains: "Leaving your winter jacket on while driving is a common mistake during colder months, as chilly mornings and slow-to-warm cars make it tempting to stay bundled up. However, this small action can distract you from the road, potentially resulting in a £100 fine and points on your licence for careless driving if stopped by police."

"Removing bulky coats, gloves, and scarves before setting off is crucial. While it may feel cold initially, these items can obstruct movement, reduce grip, or impair visibility, increasing the risk of accidents. Rule 97 of the Highway Code clearly states that clothing and footwear must not prevent you from using the controls properly. Ignoring this rule can result in fines of up to £5,000, three penalty points, or worse - an accident."

"Additionally, the Road Traffic Act warns that anything obstructing a driver's vision can be deemed hazardous, leading to penalties ranging from a £100 fine to £1,000 and three points on your licence if taken to court. Prioritising safe and unrestricted driving attire is key to staying safe and avoiding costly penalties.", reports Birmingham Live.