Warning to drivers as 'mistake' in coming weeks could cost £2,500

Travel experts are warning drivers that overloading their vehicle with presents or a Christmas tree this season could see them fined up to £2,500. With December around the corner, Brits will rely on their car to transport presents, decorations and groceries, with the majority of Christmas retail done in-store last year ( £54 billion ).

Further, seven million real Christmas trees are sold and transported directly from tree farms each year. But as Jamie Fraser, travel expert at Wild Packs, explains, piling multiple Christmas presents into the car can obscure your view and exceed the vehicle’s weight limit, leading to potential safety risks or penalties.

Jamie said: “Understandably, many of us depend on our vehicles to transport Christmas goods. But overloading the car with too many items can obstruct the driver’s view, endangering those in the car as well as other road users.

"This is due to Rule 98 of the Highway Code, which states that drivers must not overload their vehicles and should always stay within the weight limits recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Drivers who overpack their vehicles risk a £50 fixed penalty for exceeding weight limits or blocking their view.

"Furthermore, in the event of an accident, overloaded vehicles may render insurance claims invalid. In more severe cases, if authorities determine that a vehicle is in a dangerous condition due to the excess weight, the penalties can increase to a £2,500 fine, three penalty points, and even a driving ban."

Additionally, according to the DVSA’s guidelines, overloading your car this Christmas can lead to penalties ranging in price based on the extent of the violation:

1. Overloading by 0–10% results in a £100 fine.
2. Overloading by 10–15% incurs a £200 fine.
3. Overloading by 15% or more leads to a £300 fixed penalty.

How to avoid a £2,500 penalty

Don’t block your car window: Jamie said: “Blocking the rear window of a car isn’t technically against the law, provided the vehicle has two fully operational side mirrors. However, it’s vital to make sure your car is free of blind spots that could prevent the driver from spotting other vehicles or responding to potential hazards. Obstructions caused by Christmas presents can impact your visibility, meaning accidents are more likely and potentially making the vehicle unsafe under road traffic regulations.”

Make sure your car doesn’t exceed its weight: Jamie said: “Going over the maximum weight capacity can negatively impact the vehicle's braking, steering, and overall handling, creating serious risks for both the driver and others on the road. Whether you're packing gifts, or even a Christmas tree, take extra care to load the vehicle safely - not just for your protection, but also to stay within the law.”

Properly secure your Christmas tree: Jamie said: “If you are transporting a Christmas tree, make sure it is securely fastened to prevent it from falling off while driving. Rule 98 states that you must secure any load to avoid potential damage. Additionally, be mindful of how the added weight of the tree can impact the vehicle’s maximum weight capacity.”