With the Coronation just around the corner, drivers might be tempted to add Union Jack decorations to their car or blast the national anthem in the streets. Despite this being a bit of ‘harmless fun’ it’s important to be aware of the potential fines and penalties motorists could incur by inadvertently breaking the Highway Code.
The car insurance team at Comparethemarket has put together a list of driving rules and regulations to keep in mind while celebrating the Coronation, to ensure all road users are kept safe.
Drivers could be fined up to £2,500 for car decorations
Highway Code: 30
While some drivers might be tempted to innocently show off their support with flags and stickers on their vehicle, doing so could incur a hefty fine.
If decorations obscure views of the road or distract the driver, they could be violating rule 30 of the Highway Code, and be issued with a fine of up to £1,000 and three penalty points. Also, if a driver is deemed to be using their vehicle in a dangerous condition due to excessive decorations, they could receive a fine of up to £2,500.
Costumes or masks should that obscure views of the road or impact the ability to properly control the vehicle could lead to fines of up to £1,000
Highway Code: 97
A royal occasion might be a great excuse for fun costumes and masks, but if a costume blocks a motorist’s view of the road, or prevents them from using the controls correctly, drivers will find themselves breaking rule 97 of the Highway Code. Doing so will land them with a fine of up to £1,000 and three penalty points.
Honking a horn in celebration could lead to a fine of up to £1,000
Highway Code: 112
Rule 112 of the Highway Code says that a driver should never use their horn except when moving, and only then to alert other drivers to their presence.
If drivers are found to be using their horns without good reason or inappropriately, they may find themselves with a fixed penalty notice of £30. If this is disputed and taken to court, it could cost as much as £1,000.
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Playing the national anthem to excess could land drivers with an unlimited fine and 3-9 penalty points
Highway Code: 148
Drivers might want to think again before playing ‘God Save the King’ at full volume while driving, as this could lead to a large fine.
Driving with excessively loud music breaks rule 148 of the Highway Code, as it causes distraction, which can be considered careless and inconsiderate driving. This could lead to an unlimited fine and three to nine penalty points.
Julie Daniels from the car insurance team at Comparethemarket says: “While spirits are likely to be high as those that plan to celebrate the Coronation gather, it’s important to stick to rules of the road to ensure the safety of all road users.
Dressing up, decorating your car, and playing loud music can cause distractions for motorists, some of which could lead to breaking the Highway Code. Drivers should familiarise themselves with potential driving offences and legal requirements when on the road, to avoid inadvertently putting themselves at risk of fines or penalty points if looking to celebrate the Coronation.”
