Britons are being warned of massive fines they could face for breaking Highway Code rules during the wetter months, as the DVSA tells motorists to be sensible.
Drivers have been urged to be aware of Rule 121 of the Highway Code which ensures that vehicle brakes are tested before setting off, which can be impacted by water.
It details: “If you have driven through deep water your brakes may be less effective. Test them at the first safe opportunity by pushing gently on the brake pedal to make sure that they work. If they are not fully effective, gently apply light pressure while driving slowly. This will help to dry them out.”
Amid weather warnings for heavy rain, drivers have also been reminded not to splash pedestrians or they could face fines of up to £5,000 plus penalty points on their licence.
DVSA stated it’s ‘important to know the rules’
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Splashing pedestrians breaches section three of the Road Traffic Act 1988, and is considered to be driving “without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road”.
Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, the DVSA stated: “Rule 121 of The Highway Code is about how your vehicle’s brakes can be affected by water. It’s important to know and understand all the rules to ensure you’re being a safe road user.”
According to experts, driving through puddles and splashing other road users may result in a fine of £100 and three penalty points on the licence. But in more serious cases fines can reach as much as £5,000.
Greg Wilson, founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk said: “Drivers must be aware of the rules of the road to help keep everyone safe and avoid mishaps like splashing pedestrians, that could end up costing them thousands or adding points to their licence.
“Motorists need to be extra careful when travelling in the rain, slowing down to allow more time to react to unknown situations and doubling the following distance from the vehicle in front to four seconds, as the vehicle will take longer to come to a stop on the wet road.
On top of fines, drivers could also end up paying for car damages caused by the wetter weather, with Ben Pitcher, owner of DPF Experts, explaining that wet brakes can make vehicles less responsive, posing a safety risk.
To dry them effectively, drivers should slow down and gently apply the brakes at intervals. He also suggested changing driving style in wet conditions to avoid “an on-the-spot fine of around £100 and three penalty points on your licence”.
Motorists should also make sure their tyre tread depth meets the legal minimum of 1.6mm, as this can significantly affect stopping distances in wet conditions.
Failure to comply with the minimum depth could result in fines of up to £10,000 and three penalty points per defective tyre or 12 points if multiple tyres are affected.
Pitcher added: “A dirty car doesn’t just look bad—it can also impact your fuel efficiency. Cleaning your car makes it more aerodynamic, reducing drag and allowing for better fuel economy which can result in up to £200 yearly in fuel savings. Keeping your windscreen and number plate clean is also essential, as failing to do so could lead to fines of up to £1,000.
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Brakes can be less effective in wet weather
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“If water gets inside your vehicle, leave the doors and windows open for ventilation. Running the engine won’t do much to help, instead remove floor mats to help speed up the drying process.
“A cost-effective solution is using a car dehumidifier, which will effectively draw out moisture and prevent long-term damage or mould buildup inside the car, where in more serious cases can cost up to £400 in repairs.”
