Drivers warned of £5,000 fine and licence points due to change this week

Drivers are being warned to be on their guard as the weather changes this week and make sure they don't fall foul of a rule that could cost them dear. A motoring expert has issued an urgent warning ahead of forecast snow from Monday night.

Ignoring it could leave motorists facing a fine of £5,000 and multiple penalty points on their licence. Ripe Motorhome Insurance has advised that driving with snow on the roof, windscreen or mirrors of your car presents a significant safety risk that must be avoided.

It comes ahead of snow forecast to hit large parts of the UK from Monday evening, with up to 20cm predicted in some areas. While it's not illegal to drive with snow on your car, the Highway Code stipulates that when driving in adverse conditions, you must be able to see clearly – without snow, ice or condensation obscuring your view.

Drivers could be also charged under the below road safety laws if snow falls off and hits another another car or falls onto the windscreen while driving. It’s therefore important to clear your car of snow before setting off on a journey, however short.

Driving a vehicle without due care and attention, also known as careless driving, under section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, comes with a fine of up to £5,000. Other penalties include up to nine points on your licence and/or disqualification from driving for a set period of time.

Driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition under section 40A of the Road Traffic Act 1988, sees the fine for driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition up to £2,500, plus a starting point of three penalty points, depending on the type of vehicle and the severity of the offence.

Alan Thomas, CEO of Ripe Motorhome Insurance, said: “With the weather set to turn very wintery across the UK this week, many of us will be setting off on car journeys either in the snow or following some snowfall. Whilst it looks beautiful, snow creates extremely hazardous conditions for driving, both to yourself and to others. Remember to clear all snow from your car before you set off – it’s a couple of extra minutes but could save you a huge fine and, more importantly, will make the roads much safer for everyone around you.”