With December almost here, many of us are thinking about buying a Christmas tree, while some have done so already.
Many households buy a real tree as a yearly tradition, with it often being quite difficult to get the huge bundle into your car. The problems don't end there, either, with one used car retailer warning that driving your tree home could see you hit with a hefty fine.
This is because it's possible to break a number of driving laws, as well as putting your health and safety at risk.
READ MORE: Winter driving mistake that could put your child's life at risk
The motoring offence that you could end up committing is known as CU50, causing or likely to cause danger by reason of load or passengers. This could see you hit with three penalty points, and a fine of up to a huge £5,000 for inconsiderate driving, making for a very expensive Christmas.
To help drivers stay on the right side of the law, Your Red Car has four tips for transporting your tree safely, as reported in Wales Online.
1. Only take the people who need to go
While taking a family of five to pick up a Christmas tree might initially seem like a fun festive day out, it’s not practical if you have to then transport them all home - plus a large Christmas tree too. For safety reasons, only take the people that need to be in the vehicle and ensure that you have enough room left for the tree.
You can have windows open, but make sure branches aren’t protruding from the vehicle where they might damage other vehicles or obstruct road users’ views. Many people aren’t aware that you get a £100 fine for driving with your boot open.
2. Wrap something around the tree
Most Christmas tree sellers will wrap your tree in netting if you ask them to. If this isn’t an option, cling film or bungee cords can be used to neatly package up the tree and keep the branches under control.
As well as making it easier to transport the tree, this will protect it from damage and ensure flailing branches don’t distract you while you’re at the wheel. Once you have finished with the netting, make sure that it’s disposed of properly as this can pose a danger to wildlife.
3. Install a roof rack
Although more of an investment, you could also purchase a roof rack to transport the tree on. The Highway Code stresses that it’s important that the tree doesn’t stick out dangerously though. Added to this, the load must also not disrupt your vision. Be mindful too that the increased load on top of the car will increase fuel consumption, and do not block rear view mirrors.
4. Drive carefully
Drive cautiously. With an excess load in the car, you are more prone to danger. For example, if for some reason you had to make an emergency stop, the tree could move and cause injury. Pay attention while you’re driving and stick to the speed limit. Save the Christmas tunes for when you get home - music can be an added distraction.
Denton Brock, head of Your Red Car, said: “Drivers need to know the laws and regulations when it comes to carrying heavier loads in order to avoid penalties and fines. With the festive season approaching, it’s paramount that drivers know how to avoid being on the wrong side of the law, especially with the ongoing cost of living crisis. The Highway Code and road safety and vehicle rules are available to read on the gov.uk website."
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