Monitoring Desk
ISLAMABAD: Drivers with too much junk or dirt in their vehicles risk their safety behind the wheel and will have to fork out £100. Therefore, before heading out for a spin, it is always worth giving your motor a quick once over.
To avoid such a fine, Jamie Louram, Halfords car cleaning buyer, has some valuable tips on what to look out for, how to avoid a penalty or fine, and ensure your car is safe to drive.
He said as there was no fine specifically for having a messy interior, too much litter could fall under the careless driving rule, however, if found to be driving with no care and attention, police can issue on-the-spot fines of £100 along with three penalty points.
A more serious situation can move to court and result in a £2,500 fine and disqualification.
Jamie said it is therefore important to keep your car clear of clutter, especially in the footwell to prevent unwanted things from getting stuck under the brake pedal and on the dashboard which could check your view.
Paul Turner said his 17-year-old daughter was disturbed when she failed her test before even turning the engine on because her car was “too dirty”. She waited for months to have her test before she rocked up to Blackpool Test Center, however, the examiner refused to even get inside the car as there were a number of tiny pencil rubber filings on the carpet underneath the passenger seat.
Why cleaning car is important
Jamie said that a dirty windscreen is not only dangerous but can lead to careless driving which can result in a £100 fine and three points on your license.
Muddy mirrors can also limit your vision, and also lead you to a fine of about the same amount. Meanwhile, the obscured number plates can lead to fines of up to £1,000 if the digits can’t clearly be read.
Jamie said: “It’s vital to check that your mirrors are properly clean and clear every time as you get into the car, as anything that may obstruct your vision will make it risky to drive.
“Any kind of dirt, mud, or grime on the windscreen can be extremely dangerous as it can impact your view of the road ahead.
He recommended that always keeping a pack of wipes on board to promptly clean up any spillages, and keeping the glove box in good order.
Jamie also suggested installing a small bin, cleaning out the boot periodically, or even fitting a boot organizer to prevent any fines.
