£1,000 fines for for driving with foggy windows this autumn
Motorists are being warned they could be fined up to £1,000 for driving with foggy windscreens this autumn and winter.
The motoring experts at LeaseLoco.com are urging drivers to wait until their windscreens and windows have fully cleared before setting off on their journeys.
As the temperatures drop, car windows can become foggy from condensation, particularly in the early mornings.
This happens when warm and moist air from the inside of the car comes into contact with the cool glass and cold temperatures outside.
Many drivers make the mistake of starting their journeys before their windscreen and windows are fully clear but this can restrict visibility and potentially lead to dangerous driving.
The Highway Code states that windscreens and windows must be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision.
Failing to maintain a clear view could result in a £1,000 fine and three penalty points.
The experts are advising drivers to be patient and wait for windscreens and windows to be free of fog and steam before driving.
To clear fog quickly, they advise putting on the air conditioning and opening a window slightly. Those who have cars with a defrost button for the windscreen should also put this on to speed up the process.
John Wilmot, CEO and founder of LeaseLoco.com said, “We’re often in a rush in the mornings and many of us just want to get on the road as quickly as possible.
“But driving off before the fog on your windscreen clears up can be really risky. It prevents you from being able to have a full, clear view of the road ahead which can be particularly dangerous on dark mornings.
“Not only could you face the consequences of dangerous driving, but you can also be slapped with a hefty fine and points on your license.
“If you’re in a hurry, the quickest way to clear fog is by putting on the AC and opening a window.
“If your car has a defrost button for the windscreen pop this on as well. This will blow warm air directly onto the glass while the AC draws any moisture from the air and reduces condensation. Having the window open also allows any humid air to escape and fresh, cool air to enter.
“If you really don’t want the hassle of foggy and steamy windows at all, you can buy an anti-fog spray to apply to your windscreen and windows. This creates a barrier on the glass and prevents condensation from building up.”
