Drivers face £1k fine for breaking little known windscreen rule – and it’s very common in autumn
DRIVERS have been warned that they face a £1,000 fine for breaking a little-known windscreen rule - and it's very common in autumn.
Motors experts have urged car owners to look out for a key hazard to avoid a costly penalty.
Specialists at Go Car Credit have let drivers know that a build-up of leaves on your windscreen may "impede visibility" and land you in hot water with the law.
As the weather turns colder and the leaves start to fall, it's vital that you regularly clear them from your field of vision before setting off.
Failure to do so could see you collared for driving without due care and attention.
This can carry penalties such as a £1,000 fine, points on your licence or even a driving ban.
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Go Car Credit spokesperson Hayley O’Connor said: "With the changing weather, priority one is to stay safe in challenging autumn driving conditions.
"However, we also understand that people want to avoid paying unnecessary fines."
The company advised how autumn leaves can "create a variety of hazardous driving conditions" - and said: "Allowing wet leaves to collect on your windscreen without clearing them could land you in trouble."
Go Car Credit pointed to how the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 Act means motorists must "keep all glass clear of obstruction".
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And experts at LeaseVan.co.uk told how leaves could prove a safety danger as weather conditions change, the Express reported.
The company said: "WAs the trees start to drop their leaves, combined with the damp conditions, a pile of wet leaves on the road can be just as dangerous as a big puddle.
"Ensure to reduce your speed before driving over them, or if safe to do so, carefully swerve the pile altogether.
"Be mindful that a pothole may be hiding underneath.”
There have also been warnings from expert roadside recovery mechanic Nick Powell, who has been named AA Patrol of the Year.
He said: "Autumn can bring its own set of driving challenges as debris such as leaves and branches can affect tyre traction on the roads, especially following strong winds and stormy weather.
"Drivers may also encounter more standing water at the side of roads where drains have been blocked by leaves and these puddles can often hide potholes which can potentially damage vehicles and injure those on two wheels.
"It’s important to keep your car maintained as the season progresses, which includes keeping on top of clearing leaves which have been stuck in under the bonnet or on the windscreen.
"Leaves which are not cleared from the windscreen can reduce the effectiveness of your wiper blades and screen wash."
Motoring experts have also urged drivers to be aware about a car repairs parts crisis.
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A veteran mechanic has also revealed a little-known button he says could save your life.
And another told of the ways to tell a good garage from a bad one.