Whether you've been told not to leave your interior lights on or not to turn up your music too loudly, drivers have heard it all when it comes to the do's and don'ts of getting behind the wheel - but how many of these myths are actually true?
The AA has set the record straight on some of the most widespread driving rumours out there, from eating and drinking to what shoes you wear on the road. But the motoring organisation advised that just because something isn't technically against the law, that doesn't necessarily mean it's safe to do it, InYourArea reports.
"The most important thing to remember when you're on the road is that you must obey the Highway Code," the AA warned. "Rule 148 of the Highway Code states that safe driving and riding needs concentration, so all distractions should be avoided.
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"There might not be specific laws forbidding certain actions and behaviours, but it's strongly recommended that you avoid doing anything that could slow your reaction times and cause an otherwise avoidable accident," the experts added. Here's the truth behind eight of the most common myths when it comes to driving laws.
Is it illegal to drive with interior lights on?
There is no specific law against driving with your vehicle's interior lights on - however, doing so could interfere with your vision or distract other motorists at night. If you're pulled over for bad driving and the police determine that having your interior lights on was the probable cause, you could be slapped with a charge for careless driving - which spells a maximum penalty of £5,000 and between three and nine points of your licence.
Can I be fined for listening to music too loudly?
According to Rule 148 of the Highway Code, all distractions should be avoided while on the road to ensure safe driving - which includes loud music. While there are no direct laws on how loud your music should be, motorists are strongly recommended to avoid doing anything that could slow down their reaction times and potentially lead to an accident.
Is it true that I can drive 10% over the speed limit without breaking the law?
Technically, even driving 1mph over the speed limit counts as breaking the law - however, you won't always get a speeding ticket in these circumstances because speedometers aren't always accurate, the AA explained. The National Police Chief's Council recommends only issuing a ticket if drivers top the limit by 10% plus two, for example driving 35mph in a 30mph zone.
However, this is at the discretion of individual police officers, so there's no guarantee that you will be let off for going slightly over the speed limit. The best way to make sure you don't get caught out is to drive carefully and stick to the speed limit at all times, the AA advised.
Can I eat and drive?
There is no specific law banning motorists from eating while driving, and AA said that you would not be pulled over immediately for doing so - as long as you are still paying attention to the road. If your snacking habits end up distracting you and the police believe you aren't in control of your vehicle, they can charge you for careless driving.
Can I drink soft drinks or coffee while driving?
Similarly, there is no law banning you from drinking non-alcoholic drinks while driving unless it proves to be a distraction. However, the AA advised any hot coffee or tea drinkers to ensure they always keep the lid on their beverage while on the road, as any spills could lead to you losing control of the car - potentially resulting in a careless driving fine as well as a burnt lap.
Is driving in heels, flip-flops or barefoot illegal?
Although it isn't illegal to drive wearing certain types of shoes provided you can still operate the vehicle safely, Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that motorists should ensure they wear "footwear and clothing which does not prevent (them) using the controls in the correct manner". To avoid falling foul of this rule, it's best to wear sensible shoes while at the wheel and change into your heels or flip-flops when you reach your destination, the AA advised.
Could I fail my MOT because I have something hanging from my rear-view mirror?
An obstruction of more than 4cm could land you with a failed MOT, but your mechanic will likely tell you to remove the item before the MOT takes place. However, you should still be careful that your accessories aren't creating a blind spot which could prevent you from seeing the road.
Is it legal to smoke and drive?
This one depends on what you're using your vehicle for and who is in it with you - if you have a passenger aged under 18 in your car, or have received your car to conduct business, it's against the law to smoke inside. The Highway Code also warns that even when you are smoking inside your car legally, you can land a careless driving charge if police find that your smoking is causing distraction.
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