Drivers slapped with £2,500 fine for breaking little known rule at Christmas

Drivers are being urged to think twice before going out Christmas shopping in their vehicles this festive season thanks specifically to rule 98 of the Highway Code

The festive season might bring more than merry tidings for hapless Brits in their cars as travel experts warn of hefty fine up to £2,500 if they aren't careful.

As December rolls in, people all over the country are lining their cars with gifts galore and fresh Christmas trees. Last year witnessed a whopping £54billion splashed in stores for the occasion.

However, Jamie Fraser from Wild Packs cautioned over the potential hazard and penalties for cramming too many present into a vehicle. He advised: "Understandably, many of us depend on our vehicles to transport Christmas goods. But overloading the car with too many items can obstruct the driver's view, endangering those in the car as well as other road users."

He went on: "This is due to rule 98 of the Highway Code, which states that drivers must not overload their vehicles and should always stay within the weight limits recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Drivers who overpack their vehicles risk a £50 fixed penalty for exceeding weight limits or blocking their view.

"Furthermore, in the event of an accident, overloaded vehicles may render insurance claims invalid. In more severe cases, if authorities determine that a vehicle is in a dangerous condition due to the excess weight, the penalties can increase to a £2,500 fine, three penalty points, and even a driving ban", reports Kent Live.

He noted: "Blocking the rear window of a car isn't technically against the law, provided the vehicle has two fully operational side mirrors. However, it's vital to make sure your car is free of blind spots that could prevent the driver from spotting other vehicles or responding to potential hazards. Obstructions caused by Christmas presents can impact your visibility, meaning accidents are more likely and potentially making the vehicle unsafe under road traffic regulations.

"Going over the maximum weight capacity can negatively impact the vehicle's braking, steering, and overall handling, creating serious risks for both the driver and others on the road. Whether you're packing gifts, or even a Christmas tree, take extra care to load the vehicle safely - not just for your protection, but also to stay within the law."

To top it off, when it comes to transporting your festive fir, Jamie stated: "If you are transporting a Christmas tree, make sure it is securely fastened to prevent it from falling off while driving. Rule 98 states that you must secure any load to avoid potential damage. Additionally, be mindful of how the added weight of the tree can impact the vehicle's maximum weight capacity."

According to the DVSA’s guidelines, overloading your car can lead to penalties ranging in price based on the extent of the violation:

1. Overloading by 0–10% results in a £100 fine.
2. Overloading by 10–15% incurs a £200 fine.
3. Overloading by 15% or more leads to a £300 fixed penalty.