Latest news with #Bumper
Wales Online
21 hours ago
- Automotive
- Wales Online
Drivers who break 10mph Highway Code rule face being fined
Drivers who break 10mph Highway Code rule face being fined The rule has been described as 'crucial' in helping to prevent accidents People could face a fine if they break the rules (Image: Getty ) Motorists are being warned they face a fine if they break a 10mph Highway Code rule. Experts have warned drivers of potential penalties amid an increase in the number of horse riders on the road during the warmer weather. Horses can be unpredictable animals, with sudden noises or movements spooking them, when out on the roads, which could create a dangerous situation for all road users. Car repair finance firm Bumper, a company which allows drivers to split the cost of car repairs with monthly instalments without the upfront cost, has now offered advice to drivers. The company states that drivers should approach horses slowly and cautiously, giving them lots of room, per the Highway Code. A spokesman for Bumper said: "This will help to keep the horse, the rider and drivers safe. "Horses can be unpredictable, and sudden movements or noises can startle them, potentially leading to dangerous situations for the rider and the driver. "Horses are vulnerable road users, and the Highway Code requires drivers to slow down to 10 mph when passing horses, maintaining at least two metres of space. Article continues below "This is crucial to prevent accidents caused by spooked horses, which can react unpredictably to perceived threats. "Most comprehensive car insurance policies will cover the cost of a horse damaging a vehicle, provided it wasn't the driver's fault. "Sudden changes in a driver's behaviour, such as sounding the horn or revving the engine, can cause a horse to panic and move erratically. "Adhering to Rule 215 of the Highway Code by passing wide and slow is essential to ensuring rider and driver safety. "In rural areas, where encounters with horses are more common, it's particularly important for drivers to be vigilant and patient. "Awareness and caution can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and serious injuries." Meanwhile, motorists have also been reminded to plan ahead before they travel on the M4 between junctions 37 and 38 near Pyle as major roadworks are to be carried out to ensure the safety and long-term resilience of the motorway. The works will take place for six months beginning on Monday, June 9. The work involves refurbishment to five bridges on this stretch of the M4 and is being described as "essential to maintain safety and prevent deterioration of the road." Click here to read more. Article continues below
Daily Record
08-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
Drivers warned of ‘biggest scam' when buying a used car
Motorists should be cautious when purchasing a car from an unknown buyer Drivers planning on purchasing a used car are being warned to be extra vigilant. According to experts, motorists should be cautious before parting with their money and always check the vehicles ownership history before striking a deal. Disreputable sellers have been known to advertise vehicles online while concealing who the real owner is, in a move that can make it harder to trace a car's history – and potentially leave the buyer exposed if something goes wrong after purchase. A spokesperson at Bumper said: 'One of the most important steps when buying a used car is verifying who the registered keeper is. In the UK, this information can be found on the V5C document, which should match the details of the person selling the vehicle.' They continued: 'If a seller isn't listed as the current registered keeper, it could be a red flag. "While there are sometimes legitimate reasons for this, such as selling on behalf of a family member, it's worth asking for written confirmation and proof before proceeding.' Bumper also emphasised the importance of documentation in protecting the buyer. The expert added: "The V5C logbook is a critical document for any used car purchase. It shows the current and previous registered keepers, and any discrepancies should be taken seriously. "Buyers should also be wary of missing logbooks or excuses for why the document isn't available.' The warning comes as thousands of drivers are expected to purchase second-hand vehicles in 2025 Bumper added: 'If something doesn't feel right – such as mismatched names or vague explanations – it's best to walk away. "There are plenty of well-documented used vehicles on the market, and taking a cautious approach can prevent costly mistakes down the line.' Drivers can carry out a range of checks using the vehicle's registration number via including MOT history, tax status, and whether a car has been recorded as stolen or written off. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Independent vehicle history reports can also reveal if the car has outstanding finance. The DVLA recently unveiled a revamped service in a bid to make motoring admin tasks easier for drivers. Announced on X, previously known as Twitter, the update is set to centralise all the information and paperwork that motorists need. By creating a driver and vehicles account on drivers will be able to deal with many life admin tasks in one place, whether it's renewing their driving licence or checking when their vehicle tax needs to be paid. Registering for this service requires a driving licence issued in England, Scotland or Wales, or having a vehicle log book (V5C) with your name in the registration.
Wales Online
01-05-2025
- Automotive
- Wales Online
UK road sign that motorists are scratching their heads over
UK road sign that motorists are scratching their heads over The UK's roads are full of different signs that are designed to guide, inform and alert drivers - but some are more tricky to decipher than others The red triangle sign with two black arrows is confusing drivers up and down the country (Image: Getty ) UK drivers often find themselves scratching their heads over a triangular road sign that's crucial for safely navigating narrow roads. Roads across the country are dotted with various signs designed to guide, warn, and inform, but some of them can be confusing for those who haven't recently revisited the Highway Code. Among the most perplexing is a sign featuring a red border with two black arrows pointing in opposite directions. While it might seem familiar to many, its true meaning often surprises drivers. According to experts, this particular sign signals the end of a one-way street, indicating that drivers are about to enter a road where traffic flows in both directions. This clarification comes courtesy of the RAC, as reported by Lancs Live. While the sign is essential for safety, many drivers are unaware of its significance, highlighting the importance of staying up to date with road sign meanings. The RAC's website advises: "If the arrows are positioned vertically, it means the road you're driving on will soon carry two-way traffic," reports the Mirror. Motorists should stay on the left and watch out for oncoming vehicles. When the arrows are horizontal, it signifies that drivers must turn left or right to continue onto the forthcoming two-way road. Read the biggest stories in Wales first by signing up to our daily newsletter here Experts at Bumper, a car repair company, have noted that this straightforward sign can still surprise drivers. "This is a warning sign, and all triangular signs fall into that category," a Bumper representative said. Article continues below "In this case, the two arrows – one pointing left and one pointing right – indicate that you're approaching a section of road where two-way traffic crosses your path." You often spot this sign after a one-way road or a narrow single-lane area, especially in rural or residential neighbourhoods, where traffic has been flowing in just one direction. "In plain terms, it's a heads-up that oncoming vehicles may now be travelling towards you, so you need to adjust your driving and stay alert," Bumper explains. A lot of drivers often believe that the sign just indicates the road is turning into a two-way street, but that's not completely accurate. "The key detail is that the oncoming traffic crosses over your route," Bumper points out. "It's not just that the road is going to have two-way flow – it's that vehicles could appear more suddenly, and from a direction you weren't expecting." Misunderstanding this could result in risky assumptions, particularly if drivers fail to reduce speed or yield when needed. It's natural for some road signs to slip our minds, especially those we don't encounter regularly. However, Bumper recommends reviewing the Highway Code from time to time to help avoid severe accidents. "This sign is a great example of how small misunderstandings can lead to big risks," the spokesperson adds. "Spotting it and knowing what it means gives you a critical window to adjust your position on the road and stay safe." They added: "So if you see a red triangle with two black arrows pointing in opposite directions? That's your cue to prepare for vehicles heading towards you – and to drive accordingly." Another sign that often confuses drivers is the 'no stopping' sign. In the UK, this sign is sometimes called a clearway sign and features a red cross on a blue circular background. Article continues below Drivers might confuse this with the 'no waiting' sign due to their similar appearance. However, they stressed the significance of adhering to this rule: Drivers must not stop their vehicles in this area for any reason.
Daily Mirror
01-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
DVLA advice as thousands of drivers face £1,000 fine without action
The DVLA is reminding certain driver hat they must renew their driving licence every three years - and may face a £1,000 fine if they fail to do so Motorists who are 70 and over are being put on alert that they could face a hefty £1,000 fine or have their licence lapse if they don't keep it up to date with DVLA rules. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is issuing older drivers with a reminder that once they celebrate their 70th birthday, it's time to renew their driving licence every three years – and failing to do so could land them in hot water with the law. The DVLA advises: "You need to renew your licence every 3 years after you turn 70. Do it online – it's easy, quick and secure." While photocard licences usually have a shelf life of a decade, the rules shift when a driver reaches 70. To stay on the right side of the road laws, they must refresh their licence every three years and verify they're still fit to drive. Car repair finance experts at Bumper said: "Once you reach the age of 70, renewing your licence every three years is a legal requirement. The renewal confirms you're still medically fit to drive and ensures your records stay accurate. "Failing to renew an expired licence or driving without one is an offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988. If caught, motorists could face a fine of up to £1,000 and risk losing their entitlement to drive." Drivers may continue driving while their renewal is being processed, but only under certain conditions, as stipulated by the DVLA . The renewal must be less than a year old, their previous licence must have been valid, they must meet the necessary medical standards, and they must follow the conditions on their previous licence, reports Plymouth Live. A Bumper spokesperson said: "Many drivers are unaware that their licence may expire automatically at 70 unless action is taken. It's important to check the expiry date and plan ahead to avoid any disruption to your ability to drive." Renewing your driving licence The DVLA recommends that motorists renew online via the official website, which is the quickest and most cost-effective method. Online applications cost £14 and are usually processed within five working days. Postal applications cost £17, and renewals through the Post Office come with a fee of £21.50. A DVLA spokeswoman added: "We encourage customers to use as applying online is the quickest and cheapest way to renew their photocard driving licence. If you stop driving altogether, you should inform DVLA and return your licence rather than keeping it as a form of out-of-date photo ID."
Daily Mirror
30-04-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Many drivers confused by UK road sign that's 'often misunderstood'
UK drivers frequently find themselves puzzled by a triangular road sign that plays a vital role in safely navigating narrow roads. The roads across the country are filled with different signs designed to guide, inform, and alert drivers. If you haven't refreshed your memory on the Highway Code recently, you might be unclear about some of its meanings. Experts in driving have highlighted one specific sign that often confuses motorists. This sign has a red border and contains two black arrows that point in opposite directions. Even though many drivers recognise it, they are often surprised to learn its actual significance. The RAC explains that this sign signals that you are nearing the end of a one-way street and will soon be entering a two-way road, reports Lancs Live. The RAC website states: "If the arrows are positioned vertically, it means the road you're driving on will soon carry two-way traffic." Drivers are advised to keep to the left side of the road and be cautious of vehicles coming from the opposite the arrows are horizontal, it indicates that you will need to make a left or right turn to proceed onto the two-way road ahead. Car repair specialists at Bumper have commented that this simple sign can often catch drivers off guard. "This is a warning sign, and all triangular signs fall into that category," says a Bumper spokesperson. "In this case, the two arrows – one pointing left and one pointing right – indicate that you're approaching a section of road where two-way traffic crosses your path." You often spot this sign after a one-way road or a narrow single-lane area, especially in rural or residential neighbourhoods, where traffic has been flowing in just one direction. "In plain terms, it's a heads-up that oncoming vehicles may now be travelling towards you, so you need to adjust your driving and stay alert," Bumper explains. A lot of drivers often believe that the sign just indicates the road is turning into a two-way street, but that's not completely accurate. "The key detail is that the oncoming traffic crosses over your route," Bumper points out. "It's not just that the road is going to have two-way flow – it's that vehicles could appear more suddenly, and from a direction you weren't expecting." Misunderstanding this could result in risky assumptions, particularly if drivers fail to reduce speed or yield when needed. It's natural for some road signs to slip our minds, especially those we don't encounter regularly. However, Bumper recommends reviewing the Highway Code from time to time to help avoid severe accidents. "This sign is a great example of how small misunderstandings can lead to big risks," the spokesperson adds. "Spotting it and knowing what it means gives you a critical window to adjust your position on the road and stay safe." They went on to say: "So if you see a red triangle with two black arrows pointing in opposite directions? That's your cue to prepare for vehicles heading towards you – and to drive accordingly." Another sign that frequently puzzles drivers is the 'no stopping' sign. In the UK, this sign, which is also referred to as a clearway sign, features a red cross on a blue circular background. This confusion might arise from its resemblance to the 'no waiting' sign. However, the importance of this sign cannot be overstated. Drivers must not stop their vehicles in this area for any reason.
