EXPERTS have revealed five ways passengers could cost drivers thousands of pounds in fines.
Drivers are all too aware that they can end up with points on their licence, a big fine or even a prison sentence if they break the law.
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But now car expert Darren Miller at BigWantsYourCar.com has identified a number of ways in which car passengers can cost drivers hefty fines.
Seatbelts
Children under 14 not wearing seatbelts could result in fines of up to £100 for the driver, with fines potentially reaching up to £500 per child.
Mr Miller said: ” Certain passenger behaviours in vehicles can inadvertently lead to fines for drivers, highlighting the need for awareness and following legal requirements.
“Children under 14 not wearing seatbelts could result in fines of up to £100 for the driver, with fines potentially reaching up to £500 per child.”
Smoking
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.
Mr Miller said: “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.”
Excess Passengers
Packing too many passengers into a car can land the driver with a fine worth of up to £100.
In more serious cases drivers could end up with a two year prison sentence.
He said: “Exceeding the passenger capacity of a vehicle not only compromises safety but can also lead to fines of up to £100 for the driver or, in more serious cases, a 2-year prison sentence.
“The potential distractions from overcrowded vehicles increase the risks of accidents, making it important for drivers to keep to passenger limits.”
Furry friends
Pets that are not restrained properly in a car pose a major hazard to safety.
Failure to secure pets properly can result in fines of up to £5,000 for drivers.
He said: “Pet owners must also be careful, as unrestrained animals in vehicles can pose significant distractions and safety hazards.
“Failure to secure pets properly can result in fines of up to £5,000 for drivers. Following the Highway Code’s guidelines on pet restraint is vital to avoid potential penalties.”
Mobile Phones
Drivers can be fined if their passengers use a mobile phone during a driving lesson. This type of behaviour can result in a fine of up to £1,000.
He 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.”
“Overall, understanding and managing these potential sources of fines is vital for drivers to reduce financial risks and maintain safety standards on the road.
“Being vigilant, following regulations, and proactively managing passenger behaviour are key strategies in avoiding penalties and promoting responsible driving practices.”
