DRIVERS across Britain have been issued with an urgent warning to check their cars ahead of a particular event this weekend.
With the clocks going back this Sunday, October 27, motorists will be facing darker conditions much earlier in the day.
With the clocks going back on October 27, drivers have been urged to check their headlights[/caption]
Drivers are urged to check their vehicles are prepared for this change – particularly the headlights – both for these own safety and to avoid hefty penalties.
They should be particularly mindful of any bulbs that may need replacing.
Failure to do so could result in a hefty £100 fine or three driving licence points.
Tim Rodie, who works for car company Motorpoint, said: “Driving with only one working headlight not only reduces your visibility but will also make it harder for other motorists to see you.
“It’s easy to check, all you need to do is walk around your car with the headlights on to make sure that all the bulbs are working as they should.”
It comes as drivers were also warned of potential fines ahead of another event in this year’s calendar – Halloween.
Spooky decorations installed in preparation for October 31 could result in a £200 fine or three licence points – if they obstruct the driver’s view or could be distracting to others.
These fines could stretch into the thousands if decorations obstruct a vehicle’s registration plate, Tim warned.
He added: “It really is best to keep the Halloween celebrations at home.”
A spokesperson for Swansway Motor Group echoed: “It’s great to see people getting into the Halloween spirit, but drivers need to be aware that certain decorations can pose serious risks on the road.
“Even something as simple as spider web decorations on the dashboard or stickers on the rear windscreen could obstruct your view, leading to fines of up to £1,000.”
The UK law defines “careless driving” as “when your driving falls below the minimum standard expected of a competent and careful driver” and includes “driving without reasonable consideration for other road users.”
