If you’re overcome by the joys of the festive season and have the overwhelming urge to extend your decorating skills to your car or van, there are some official regulations you must follow.
Most of the advice is common sense but there are guidelines that help you stay the right side of the law.
All loads must be secure
Antlers, big red noses, wreaths etc must be attached to the vehicle securely. When you’re attaching your various ornaments consider the wind resistance they could create.
Do not obscure the drivers view
Nothing can get in the way of the driver seeing out of any of their windows. The ‘port-holing’ laws apply equally to excessive ice and excessive tinsel. The consequences are a fixed penalty and 3-points on your licence.
Don’t pose a risk to other drivers or pedestrians
Anything that protrudes from your vehicle cannot cause any damage to anyone else or their property.
No lights on front or back
The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 prohibits extra lights on the front or rear as it might confuse or give false information to other road users and be construed as an emergency vehicle.
Loud continuous Christmas music
Under section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002, traffic officers can stop and seize a vehicle that is causing alarm, distress or annoyance to members of the public. Ignoring police warnings can lead to the seizure of your car. Another important thing to consider is your driving performance when singing along to your favourite carol. It’s a distraction that may lead to your name appearing on the police’s naughty list.
If excessive Christmas decorations are causing your fuel costs to rise or disproportionate merriment is affecting your driver’s performance, Cambrian Fuel Card Services offer a range of fuel cards and telematics solutions to offset these seasonal aberrations. For more information go to www.cambriancards.com or call us on 0800 612 6132
The staff and directors at Cambrian Fuel Card Services wish you a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.
The original image used is the property of Shear Comfort Seat Covers and can be found at https://www.shearcomfort.com/blog/fa-la-la-la-festive-christmas-lights-cars-brighten-holiday-season/