Driving expert urges UK motorists to stop deadly habit or risk fine

Drivers are being warned to ensure they - and any passengers - follow five crucial rules, or they could face fines of up to £5,000 - and even imprisonment. In fact, one bad habit that you can do anywhere could get you into hot water if done in a vehicle.

The fresh warning comes from car expert Darren Miller from BigWantsYourCar.com, who noted that while many people know they shoudn't do certain things, they do them anyway thinking that it's not a big deal.

So what is this bad habit? Well, according to those in the know, if you smoke you need to ensure that everyone in the car is at least 18.

Darren explained: "Smoking in vehicles with passengers under 18 is another situation where fines may apply, amounting to up to £50 for both the driver and the smoker. Beyond the financial implications, the health risks to children from exposure to cigarette smoke in enclosed spaces highlight the seriousness of this offence."

Here are the four other key habits drivers should stop now.

The requirement to wear a seatbelt is common knowldge, but do you know what happens if you - or a passengers - ignore this rule? The motoring expert stresses that "the driver could face a £100 fine and three points on their licence." As well as this, he notes "the responsibility to make sure children under 14 wear seatbelts is with the driver, with fines potentially reaching up to £500 per child."

Darren explained: "Exceeding the designated passenger capacity of a vehicle not only risks safety but can also lead to fines of up to £100 for the driver or, in more serious cases, a two-year prison sentence. The potential distractions from overcrowded vehicles increase the risks of accidents, making it important for drivers to keep to passenger limits."

Like wearing a seatbelt, we all know the use of phones is banned. But did you know that the fine is also a hefty one?

Darren said: "Passenger use of mobile phones, especially when supervising a learner driver, can also attract fines of up to £1,000 for the driver, along with six penalty points on their licence. Drivers must always focus on the road and ensure passengers follow legal restrictions on phone use while in the vehicle."

Pet owners have also been warned as "unrestrained animals in vehicles can pose significant distractions and safety hazards" resulting in a staggering fine. The motoring expert warns owners that if they fail to secure their furry friends, you can get slapped with "fines of up to £5,000 for drivers. Following the Highway Code's guidelines on pet restraint is vital to avoid potential penalties."

By identifying and managing these potential fine risks, drivers can reduce their expenses and help maintain safety on the roads for all. Staying vigilant, following the rules, and actively overseeing passenger behaviour are essential steps. As Darren points out, these are fundamental strategies for avoiding penalties and encouraging responsible driving.