As the months turn colder, unpredictable weather can cause turmoil on the roads.
Aviva, a leading insurance company, has highlighted everyday mistakes drivers tend to make when hitting the road.
The research, which surveyed 2,000 Brits, reveals that just over one in six (17%) have driven even though visibility was poor due to bright sunlight.
During the winter months, when the sun is lower in the sky, sun glare can be caused by windshields or car hoods and made worse by deflections from wet roads and snow or ice.
Aviva says choosing to drive even though visibility is poor could go against Rule 237 of the Highway Code.
This states that drivers must slow down, and if necessary, stop driving altogether, if they are dazzled by bright sunlight.
The insurance company also points out that if motorists decide to drive despite being unable to see, they’re not only putting themselves and others at risk, but they could also face a fault claim.
This can lead to your insurance not paying out if you submit a claim while driving during these conditions.
Hannah Pinches, director of motor claims at Aviva, said claims related to glare issues peak throughout the winter months.
Hannah said: “Glare tends to affect drivers when the sun is low in the sky and can be extremely distracting.
“According to our data, claims caused by glare peak in the months of December, January and February, which is why it’s a good idea to slow down and keep a safe distance from the car in front, so you have plenty of time to react if something unexpected happens.
“Adverse conditions – such as low sun – can increase the risk of an accident or incident. To reduce the chances of this happening, it’s important to take a few extra minutes to prepare your vehicle – such as using the car’s visor to help stay safe on the roads.
“Fines for failing to do so can also reach up to £1,000, and in serious cases, you could face points on your licence or even a driving ban.”
The weather continues to influence Brits’ habits when behind the wheel, with 34% admitting to wearing unsuitable clothing or footwear, such as bulky winter coats (20%), gloves (19%), and wellies or snow boots (5%).
While not explicitly illegal, these choices may breach Rule 97 of the Highway Code, which states that clothing and footwear must not prevent a driver from using the vehicle’s controls properly.
If deemed to impair driving ability, motorists could face a £100 on-the-spot fine and three penalty points.
In more serious cases, penalties can escalate to a £5,000 fine, nine points, or even a driving ban if the matter goes to court.
4 other driving habits that could cause issues this winter
Driving while drinking a warm drink
16% of Brits admit to having done this while behind the wheel.
Driving while sleep-deprived
16% of Brits say they’ve driven even though they were too tired to do so.
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Driving despite seeing a dashboard warning
15% of Brits say they’ve continued driving even though they’ve seen a warning on their dashboard like low tyre pressure.
Driving without fully clearing the wind screen
13% of Brits admit they’ve driven even though their screen wasn’t fully de-iced or clear of mud or debris.
