The UK motoring laws that can land hefty fines

UK traffic laws include some unique and perhaps unexpected regulations that motorists might not be aware of. International Drivers Association have listed 11 that might fall into the “weird” category, you might not be aware of.

• Driving with Airpods: If deemed to be a distraction, you could face a fine for driving with headphones. Fine: Up to £5,000 and 9 penalty points.

• Scaring Horses with Your Car: According to the UK Road Traffic Act of 1988, if you cause “alarm, distress, or annoyance” to a horse, the rider can report you. If you are found guilty of not driving cautiously while passing a horse and it gets spooked, you could theoretically be charged. Fine: Up to £1,000.

• Using the Horn at Night: In a built-up area, it’s illegal to use your horn between 11:30 PM and 7:00 AM, except in an emergency. Fine: Up to £300.

• Playing Music Too Loudly: You can actually be fined for playing music too loudly if it’s believed to be a nuisance to others. Fine: Up to £1000.

• Driving with an Unrestrained Pet: It’s illegal to drive with an unrestrained pet, as they could distract the driver. Fine: Up to £5,000 and 9 penalty points.

• Having a Dirty Car: If a police officer believes that the state of your car (dirt on windows or mirrors) is obstructing your view and poses a danger, you can be fined. Fine: Up to £1,000.

• Sleeping in Your Car While Drunk: Even if you’re not driving, being in your car with the keys while over the legal alcohol limit can be considered an offense. Fine: Up to £2,500.

• Using a Sat-Nav on Your Lap: Holding a mobile device for navigation while driving is an offense, even if not used for communication. Fine: £200 and 6 penalty points.

• Parking on the Wrong Side of the Road at Night: In some areas, you must park in the direction of the traffic flow during nighttime hours. Fine: £1,000.

• Neglecting to Report Hitting a Dog: While hitting other animals may not require reporting, you must report if you hit a dog. Fine: Could be up to £1,000.

• Leaving Vehicle Engine Running (Idling) in a Stationary Position: In some areas, it’s an offense to leave your vehicle’s engine running unnecessarily while that vehicle is stationary on a public road. Fine: Fixed Penalty Notice of £200, doubling if not paid within a specific time frame.