There are a number of things you need to remember when it comes to driving - from the type of screen wash you use during the winter to how to deice your car properly.
Drivers are being warned they may have to change what they're doing before they get behind the wheel.
And in a bid to help drivers avoid fines, especially at this time of year where a lot of our monthly income will be spent on Christmas gifts and festive food, it's crucial people are informed and aware.
It comes as experts from Britain's largest motoring organisation, the AA, have debunked six common winter driving myths
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So what should people be aware of before they sit behind the wheel? Here's what the experts say.
Commenting on the findings, a spokesperson for the AA said: "Driving in winter can come with many challenging conditions. Common misconceptions about what you can and can’t do whilst driving can add to these hazards.
"The AA reminds drivers that the most important thing to remember when on UK roads is that you must obey the Highway Code.
"While driving rules are constantly updated, it is important motorists understand the current regulations in place. Not only will this reduce unexpected fines or penalties from failing to comply, but it will also make UK roads a safer place.”
1. Can Christmas decorations dangling from my rear-view mirror fail my MOT?
The experts say that they indeed can. Obstruction of more than 4cm could land you with a failed MOT however they add that "realistically you’ll probably be told by your mechanic to remove the decorations attached to your rear-view mirror before the MOT takes place."
Their survey revealed that five per cent of drivers had things dangling from their rear-view mirrors which could create a blind spot.
The top 5 items spotted dangling in the windscreen:
Air fresheners (mainly trees)
Teddy bears (from small to 1 foot in length)
Miniature footballs
Beads and rosary beads
Coats of arms (mainly football clubs)
2. Can I be fined for having snow or dirt on my registration plate?
Yes you can. If your registration plate is covered by snow or dirt, you could face a fine of up to £1,000.
The reason for this is because it blocks your vehicle from being picked up by speed cameras and obscures it from the view of police who use your registration to check if your car is taxed correctly, insured and has a valid MOT.
3. Is it illegal to eat and drive?
No, there's no specific law against eating while driving. The AA’s poll found that one in 10 of us eat while we drive
However if you opt to do so, you will need to ensure that your eating habits don't distract you behind the wheel. If the police think you aren't in proper control, you can be charged with careless driving. This carries a maximum penalty of £5,000, three to nine points on your licence and a discretionary driving disqualification.
4. Can I be fined for driving dressed as Santa this Christmas?
The experts confirm that whilst it's not illegal to drive dressed as Santa, wearing heavy-duty snow boots, extremely padded jackets or fake glasses as part of the costume could impact your driving ability.
They explain: "Rule 97 of the Highway Code makes it clear that drivers must have 'footwear and clothing which does not prevent (them) using the controls in the correct manner.'
"Failing to do this could leave you with a fine of as much as £5,000 if it goes to court, in addition to a possible disqualification and nine points. So if you are planning to dress as Santa this winter, it's suggested you drive in more sensible clothes or shoes and change when you get to the venue. The same goes for driving barefoot or in heels or sliders."
5. Can I decorate the outside of my vehicle this Christmas?
The experts say that decorating the exterior of your vehicle can be a potential hazard as if something were to fall off and cause an accident, you could be charged with "driving without reasonable consideration for other road users". You could also be charged with careless driving.
6. Can listening to loud Christmas music land me a fine?
Rule 148 of the Highway Code states that safe driving needs concentration, so all distractions should be avoided.
Listening to loud music is included as a potential distraction. Therefore, it’s strongly recommended that you avoid doing anything that could slow your reaction times and cause an otherwise avoidable accident.
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