Latest news with #LeaseCar.uk
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Drivers must adhere to key nighttime parking rule - or risk 'fine up to £1,000'
Albeit a lesser-known rule, it's put in place to avoid serious mishaps and road accidents. Parking at pedestrian crossings, taxi ranks and prohibited double yellow lines are all big no-nos that most drivers are aware of. But there's a lesser-known nighttime parking rule that might have slipped under your radar. Believe it or not, this specifically regards leaving your car facing oncoming traffic during twilight hours. Although it may seem like a minor detail, it actually breaches Rule 248 in the Highway Code, and drivers who do not comply could face a hefty fine. Official guidance from Ask the Police delves into this rule a little further, explaining that it only applies if your vehicle is not parked in a recognised space. "You must not park on a road at night facing against the direction of the traffic flow unless in a recognised parking space," its advice reads. "All vehicles must display parking lights when parked on a road or a lay-by on a road with a speed limit greater than 30 mph (48 km/h)." In a similar vein, car leasing experts at Flexed also add: "Motorists who park the wrong way on a road could be risking a fine of up to £1,000 without really knowing that they've broken the rule. "According to the Highway Code, drivers must park the same way as the flow of traffic at night if a marked parking space is not being used." While Rule 248 does not explain what a 'recognised parking space' is, specialists suggest that it generally refers to marked bays. So, parking the 'wrong way' on a yellow line outside controlled hours or on a road with no markings could result in a fine. Albeit a lesser-known rule, it's put in place to avoid serious mishaps and road accidents. Josh The Driver Instructor, which offers online driving test materials, also adds: "Drivers are required to park in the same direction as the flow of traffic if a marked parking space is not being used at night. "There is however a problem with this rule in that it is not well known by UK motorists. In accordance with the Highway Code, the purpose of this rule is to prevent drivers from parking against the traffic on unlit roads, since this could result in serious accidents, which could have serious consequences." Besides parking errors, there are numerous other overlooked driving rules that motorists should be aware of too. Specialists at previously told the Liverpool Echo that significant windscreen smears are actually against the 1986 Road Vehicles Regulations. This is listed under annex six of the rulebook, which reads: "Take special care that lights, brakes, steering, exhaust system, seat belts, demisters, wipers, washers and any audible warning systems are all working. "Also lights, indicators, reflectors, and number plates MUST be kept clean and clear... [and] windscreens and windows MUST be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision." Further advice from the RAC adds: "The Highway Code states that drivers should have a full view of the road ahead and glass should be maintained in a good condition. "A cracked windscreen can obscure driver view - if a motorist is stopped, it could result in a fixed penalty of three points on their licence and a fine. If you're driving with a cracked windscreen and you have an accident, you could be charged with a more serious driving offence. The accident could be your responsibility because you were driving with a damaged windscreen." Drivers who lack a clear view of the traffic or road ahead may reportedly face a £1,000 fine, three penalty points, and a discretionary disqualification. Those driving goods and commercial vehicles, such as bus and coach drivers, with obstructed windscreen views could face an even steeper fine of £2,500.
Daily Mirror
06-06-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Britain's 'bendiest' road is so difficult to drive motorists are told to avoid
For cyclists, the challenge of the road is part of its appeal, but for motorists — especially those in larger vehicles — delays and difficulties are so common, they are almost to be expected A notorious stretch of the B3081 near Shaftesbury in Dorset, aptly named Zig Zag Hill, has earned the reputation as Britain 's "bendiest" road. With a relentless series of sharp hairpin turns — some almost 180-degrees — as well as steep gradients, it's a route that tests even the most experienced drivers. In fact, many locals and motoring experts advise motorists to avoid this challenging mile-long climb altogether, especially under adverse conditions. Zig Zag Hill is infamous for its four tight hairpin turns and a constant gradient of about 13%. Navigating this road can be a nerve-wracking experience, particularly for larger vehicles and those unfamiliar with the route. Visibility is poor around corners, making it a 'very, very slow road to navigate, even in a car,' as one driver on theTruckNetUK forum put it. They added: 'Narrow, twisty and nowhere to pass anything — it is a truly awful road to travel and always has been… ANY other route would be better and faster.' When to avoid Zig Zag Hill In poor weather the risks multiply. Heavy rain can turn the road into a slippery hazard, with water cascading down the hillside increasing the chance of aquaplaning, while snow and ice make the bends even more treacherous. Experts strongly recommend avoiding Zig Zag Hill in such conditions, as controlling speed and direction becomes nearly impossible. Driving Zig Zag Hill at night is particularly daunting. The sharpness of the turns means headlights often point into the trees rather than illuminating the road ahead, forcing drivers to peer through side windows into the darkness. So, especially for those unfamiliar with the road, tackling it in the dark is ill-advised. Even in good weather, the road's design means drivers must stay alert and use low gears to maintain control. For cyclists, the challenge is part of the appeal, but for motorists — especially those in larger vehicles — delays and difficulties are so common, they are almost to be expected. Motoring experts compiled a survey of the worst routes for drivers across the UK, with Zig Zag Hill described as 'resembling a roller coaster' and named the 'bendiest one-mile stretch of road in the UK'. A spokesman for said: "We want motorists heading out on the road this summer to be well prepared and know what sort of roads they may be coming up against. These twisty roads are enough to incite fear in even the most experienced of drivers. Their sheer drops, sharp bends and uneven terrain should definitely be avoided where possible." But the route comes with some stunning positives Despite its dangers, Zig Zag Hill does offers motorists some compensation for all the difficulty — stunning views over the Dorset and Wiltshire countryside await them when they reach the summit, with a parking area for drivers to catch their breath and take in the scenery. The road's alignment dates back to the 19th century, when it was constructed to avoid the deep ruts of ancient drovers' tracks. Its steep, winding course has remained largely unchanged, preserving both its historical character and its reputation as a formidable driving challenge. Maintaining Zig Zag Hill is a significant challenge for the Council. In 2019, the road required deep excavation and resurfacing due to the wear and tear caused by constant braking and tight cornering. The work was so extensive the road had to be closed around the clock for nearly two weeks, with all traffic diverted to surrounding routes. Zig Zag Hill is a unique and memorable part of the UK's road network, but its dangers are real and well-documented. For many motorists, the advice is simple — it's safer to steer clear of Britain's bendiest road, especially when you don't have the weather on your side.
Daily Mirror
08-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Drivers urged to carry £1 kitchen item in the car to avoid £2,500 fine
Motorists are being urged to carry a common household item to prevent foggy windscreens and avoid a hefty £2,500 fine for obstructed vision Motorists across the UK are being encouraged to keep a surprising item in their car, tea bags. While it might sound unusual, experts say it could help prevent a fine. Ben Pitcher, a motoring specialist at DPF Experts, recommends placing tea bags on the dashboard. The goal is to reduce condensation and keep windscreens clear during damp or chilly weather. He explains: "Tea bags, especially black or green tea, are natural moisture absorbers. Placing them in your car can help reduce condensation, especially in colder months." Though not as potent as commercial dehumidifiers, tea bags are certainly a more affordable and eco-conscious option. And in unpredictable British weather, they could be a smart move. "Though they aren't as powerful as professional dehumidifiers, they're a cheap, eco-friendly solution for tackling minor dampness," he added. Fogged-up windows may seem harmless, but they can lead to serious consequences. This moisture build-up can obscure a driver's view and result in fines if it's not addressed properly. By absorbing ambient moisture, tea bags may help prevent the glass from misting over entirely. "Silica gel packets, commonly found in packaging, are excellent at absorbing moisture," Pitcher added. These little sachets can be tucked away in the corners of the car for extra protection. "Collecting a few and placing them around your car can help control condensation. While they won't clear foggy windows instantly, they can help reduce moisture and keep your windscreen clearer for longer," he said. The Highway Code is clear about the importance of visibility. Annex 6 outlines the responsibilities drivers have to keep various parts of their vehicle, including windows and demisters, in working order. It states: 'Windscreens and windows must be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision.' This means any moisture or misting that obscures the view must be dealt with before driving. Tim Alcock, from issued a stark warning about the cost of neglecting this basic rule. 'Drivers should always make sure to completely demist their windscreens before setting off or risk being slapped with a fine of up to £2,500 for breaking the Highway Code,' he explained. 'Don't be tempted to just leave a small gap to see what is directly in front, as you could still be fined for careless driving by not being able to see the full road view ahead.' He added that preparation is key to safe driving during colder spells. 'There are several things drivers can do to speed up the demisting to avoid driving with foggy windows.' A handful of tea bags might just be the cheapest fix.
