Drivers have been warned they could be hit with a £100 fine, that in some cases could be bumped up to £5,000, for eating in their car.
Many people enjoy a snack while on the road, whether it be fruit, chocolate, or crisps. With so many petrol stations dotted across the country, there are plenty of opportunities to top up if you're feeling peckish.
However, as reported by Lancs Live, research carried out by the University of Leeds has revealed that drivers' reaction times are as much as 44 per cent slower when eating. And doing so could land you in trouble.
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Motorists have been urged by driving experts to ensure they are fully familiar with the Highway Code in order to make sure they are not punished with a hefty fine or even banned from driving. As stated by Rule 148 of the Highway Code, “safe driving and riding needs concentration”.
Therefore, while there is not a specific rule that prevents motorists from eating in their car, they could be prosecuted for careless driving if are found to not have full control of their vehicle.
Careless driving comes with a £100 fine and three licence points, but in some cases the punishment may be far more severe. Cases that are contested in court could result in a fine of up to £5,000, as well as nine licence points and even a driving ban.
Speaking to the Express, CEO of RED Driving School Seb Goldin said: ”It’s good to reinforce that people should not be distracted while driving. If you are driving a vehicle it’s your responsibility to drive it as safe as possible.
“People can get distracted while eating or drinking something. The classic example that escapes people’s memories in terms of fines when you’re driving a vehicle is eating or drinking something.
“You might think it’s safe to drive while holding an apple or a banana in your hand but you could potentially get a fine if it was deemed that by doing so you weren’t in full and safe control of the vehicle. It’s just logical stuff really.”
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