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Daily Record
12 hours ago
- General
- Daily Record
Sunglasses driving rule that could cost motorists £5,000 this summer
Experts have issued a warning to UK motorists to ensure their sunglasses are legal. Experts are warning drivers about a hidden sunglasses rule that could result in them being hit with a hefty fine if broken. Thousands of motorists are unaware that wearing certain types of sunglasses whilst behind the wheel is actually illegal. And with extended British sunshine creating challenging road glare conditions for road users, Daniel McAfee, Head of Legal Operations at Lawhive, has highlighted the legal duties drivers face when driving in summer. He said: "The fundamental legal principle here is straightforward – drivers have positive obligations under the Road Traffic Act 1988 to maintain clear vision and full control of their vehicle at all times. "Highway Code Rules 93 and 237 specifically address these duties, and failure to comply can result not only in penalties but also legal liability and potential impact on insurance claims." Rule 93 states that drivers must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres, whilst Rule 237 requires drivers to slow down or stop if dazzled by bright sunlight. Daniel added: "Contrary to popular belief, the issue isn't simply about following product guidelines – it's about meeting your legal duty of care. "In my assessment, any eyewear that impairs your ability to assess road conditions, spot hazards, or react appropriately could constitute a breach of these fundamental obligations." The penalties reflect the seriousness with which the law treats vision-related driving offences. Motorists face charges of careless driving under Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, which can result in fixed penalties of £100, three penalty points, or in court proceedings, fines reaching £5,000 and up to nine penalty points. "If inappropriate eyewear contributes to an accident, drivers may face increased legal liability and insurance complications, as they've potentially failed to meet their statutory duty of care." The legal obligations work both ways, creating what experts describes as a "careful balancing act" for drivers. 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. Failing to wear appropriate eyewear when bright sunlight creates dangerous conditions can equally result in penalties for driving without due care and attention. Daniel said: "Generally speaking, the law requires drivers to take reasonable precautions to maintain safe vision. "This means planning ahead – keeping suitable eyewear accessible and being prepared to adjust or remove it as conditions change." Caution is advised as some sunglasses may be deemed inappropriate due to their tint level. UK regulation requires all sunglasses to be categorised and labelled with a category number that indicates the strength of the tint and the appropriate time of day for their use, which ranges from zero to four. Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of said: "Carrying a spare pair of legal sunglasses in your glove box is essential during these brighter months especially in the UK when we don't know when the sun will appear. "Wearing the right pair of sunglasses will help keep yourself and other road users safe this summer - inappropriate eyewear could put you at risk of fines, penalty points or worse.
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- General
- Daily Mirror
Exact times you can legally mow your garden lawn on weekend without facing fine
People will be out in their gardens mowing the lawn, but there are exact times you can legally do it without facing a fine - and there are different rules for weekdays and weekends As 'No Mow May' has come to an end, garden enthusiasts can dust off their lawn mowers for the season's first trim. However, they're being warned to watch the clock when it comes to weekend gardening or risk facing fines of up to £5,000. Local authorities have the power to penalise those who disrupt the peace by mowing at unsociable hours, with potential Noise Abatement Notices on the cards if your grass-cutting grates on the neighbours. During the week, firing up the mower between 8am and 8pm is generally fine, but come the weekend, it's best to keep it between 9am and 7pm to avoid any trouble, reports the Express. East Coast Fencing advises: "Most people naturally opt for weekends to complete household and garden chores, including mowing the lawn. However, weekends are also when noise complaints tend to rise as families aim to relax or catch up on sleep. To prevent frustrations, pay extra attention to the timing of your mowing on Saturdays and Sundays. "On weekdays, acceptable mowing hours typically range from around 8am to 8pm in residential areas. This range takes into account workers who may need to start their lawns early before their workday or later in the evening upon returning home. Weekday allowances are often slightly more flexible compared to weekends. "During weekends, stricter noise rules may apply due to the majority of residential homes being occupied throughout the day. For instance, many councils recommend no lawn mowing before 9am on Saturdays and 10am on Sundays, with a cut-off time of 7pm. These specific timings may vary depending on local council noise regulations, so checking their advice is strongly recommended. "There is no nationwide restriction on when individuals may cut their grass; however, the Environmental Protection Act 1990 provides local authorities with powers to address noise that constitutes a statutory nuisance." Daniel McAfee, Head of Legal Operations at Lawhive, explains: "Non-compliance with an abatement notice can lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000 for domestic premises. This is not an empty threat - these fines are real, and local authorities do enforce them. "To be more precise, noise that is excessive, unreasonable, and persistent, particularly during unsociable hours, can result in abatement notices, fines up to £5,000, and in some cases, even prosecution. "Avoid very early or late hours. Generally speaking, it's safest to operate noisy tools between 9am and 7pm. Notify neighbours in advance of using machinery like hedge trimmers or pressure washers. Opt for quieter tools where possible. "Limit duration and avoid back-to-back noisy days, especially on weekends. Consider your neighbours' specific circumstances (e.g., shift workers, infants), and adjust accordingly."
Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- General
- Scottish Sun
Warning that gardeners are risking huge £5,000 fines for mowing their lawns this weekend during certain hours
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) GARDENERS have been warned not to mow their lawns during certain hours this weekend to avoid paying a hefty fine. Anyone caught with a lawn mower risks forking out a whopping £5,000. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Mowing the grass Credit: Getty Brits could be set to enjoy temperatures as high as 26C this weekend as "Iberian heat" rolls in alongside glorious sunshine. Many would be tempted to make the best out of the weather and tend to their gardens. Regularly giving your lawn a fresh cut helps to promote healthy growth, prevent stress on the grass, and improve air circulation. However, you have to be wary what time of the day you bring out your lawn mower out of the shed. Although there is no law stopping you from mowing your lawn during certain hours, you could get in trouble with your local council. They could issue a Noise Abatement Notice if you create noise disturbance during the prohibited hours. On weekdays, it is normally accepted to make noise between 8am and 8pm. However, on weekends, people have been advised to keep it quiet before 9am and after 7pm. East Coast Fencing says: 'Most people naturally opt for weekends to complete household and garden chores, including mowing the lawn. 'However, weekends are also when noise complaints tend to rise as families aim to relax or catch up on sleep. 'To prevent frustrations, pay extra attention to the timing of your mowing on Saturdays and Sundays.' I turned my bare front garden into a vibrant green lawn in DAYS thanks to a £4 buy from Asda - the grass grew like wildfire Those who don't abide by the rules could get fined for up to £5,000 for disturbance during unsociable hours. Daniel McAfee, Head of Legal Operations at Lawhive, told Express: 'Non-compliance with an abatement notice can lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000 for domestic premises. 'This is not an empty threat - these fines are real, and local authorities do enforce them.' Luckily, experts have revealed that mowing too early can cause damage to your grass by exposing it to disease and fungal infections. The expert shared that in spring the best time to mow your lawn is between 9 am and 11 am.
The Irish Sun
3 days ago
- General
- The Irish Sun
Warning that gardeners are risking huge £5,000 fines for mowing their lawns this weekend during certain hours
GARDENERS have been warned not to mow their lawns during certain hours this weekend to avoid paying a hefty fine. Anyone caught with a lawn mower risks forking out a whopping £5,000. Advertisement 1 Mowing the grass Credit: Getty Brits could be Many would be tempted to make the best out of the weather and tend to their gardens. Regularly giving your lawn a fresh cut helps to promote healthy growth, prevent stress on the grass, and improve air circulation. However, you have to be wary what time of the day you bring out your lawn mower out of the shed. Advertisement read more on fabulous Although there is no law stopping you from mowing your lawn during certain hours, you could get in trouble with your local council. They could issue a Noise Abatement Notice if you create noise disturbance during the prohibited hours. On weekdays, it is normally accepted to make noise between 8am and 8pm. However, on weekends, people have been advised to keep it quiet before 9am and after 7pm. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous East Coast Fencing says: 'Most people naturally opt for weekends to complete household and garden chores, including mowing the lawn. 'However, weekends are also when noise complaints tend to rise as families aim to relax or catch up on sleep. 'To prevent frustrations, pay extra attention to the timing of your mowing on Saturdays and Sundays.' I turned my bare front garden into a vibrant green lawn in DAYS thanks to a £4 buy from Asda - the grass grew like wildfire Those who don't abide by the rules could get fined for up to £5,000 for disturbance during unsociable hours. Advertisement Daniel McAfee, Head of Legal Operations at 'This is not an empty threat - these fines are real, and local authorities do enforce them.' Luckily, experts have revealed that mowing too early can cause damage to your grass by exposing it to disease and fungal infections. The spring the best time to mow your lawn is between 9 am and 11 am. Advertisement Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning : If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences : One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions : A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants : 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter your neighbours garden.
Scottish Sun
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Warning to all UK Netflix users over £1k fine for watching new show this weekend
Scroll down to find out if the new warning applies to you NO CHILL Warning to all UK Netflix users over £1k fine for watching new show this weekend NETFLIX users in the UK could be faced with fines of up to £1,000 for watching a new show this weekend. An update to the streaming platform means viewers will be required to pay an additional fee to watch certain programmes. Advertisement 1 Netflix users in the UK could risk hefty fines if they don't take a certain step before watching a new show this weekend (stock image) Credit: Getty Netflix has recently branched into showing live content, which will have a major effect on UK viewers. UK households are legally required to have a TV licence when watching or recording live TV, regardless of what channel it is on. However, if you do not watch or record live television, or use BBC iPlayer, then you do not need a TV licence. Previously, this has meant that those who solely watch television through Netflix or other streaming platforms do not need a TV licence. Advertisement However, with the new Netflix live streaming feature, which includes the upcoming Tudum Live event this weekend, that could now change. UK viewers wishing to watch the live event will require a TV licence to do so legally. Legal experts previously warned about this issue when Netflix first began live streaming content in 2023. Now, the BBC has confirmed to Cord Busters that viewers will be required to purchase a TV Licence if they plan to watch live events on Netflix. Advertisement However, the majority of Netflix's content remains exempt from the TV licence fee, so long as it is not broadcast live. Daniel McAfee, Head of Legal Operations at Lawhive, confirmed: "Under UK law, any live television broadcast requires a valid TV Licence, regardless of the streaming platform." Inside the horrendous Tylenol massacre that left seven dead Netflix users who violate the licensing law could face fines of up to £1,000. While you cannot be imprisoned for evading the TV licence, court-imposed fines resulting from non-payment could see you facing jail time. Advertisement Daniel advised viewers to "stay informed on licensing changes as streaming platforms expand live broadcast offerings." While enforcement officers for the licence can carry out checks to ensure compliance, occupiers have "no legal obligation" to let them into their home. The licence fee raises around £3.7 billion a year which is around 65 per cent of the corporation's funding. Do I need a TV licence? IF you want to watch or record live TV then, yes, you need a licence. This includes recording it live and watching it later. Live TV includes all programmes on any channel, including soaps, series, documentaries and even movies. In addition, the rules apply even if you don't watch the shows on an actual TV - for example, if you watch programmes that are being broadcast live on a PC, laptop, tablet or phone. A colour TV licence currently costs £169.50 a year. A licence for watching a black and white TV costs £57. You'll need to apply for a free licence on the TV licensing website or call 0300 790 6117. Around 80 per cent of homes pay the fee but evasion is up to more than 10 per cent. Advertisement If you are over 75 and receive Pension Credit, or live with a partner who does, you are entitled to a free TV Licence. Those living in care homes or sheltered accommodation who are retired and over 60, or disabled, can grab their licence for just £7.50. A 50 per cent discount is offered to anyone who is registered blind or lives with someone who is.
