Costly Driving Errors Every Motorist Should Avoid
Everyday Driving Errors That Could Cost You Dearly
Nine Everyday Driving Offences That Could Cost You Points and Pounds
We all know the serious driving laws, but many motorists are caught out by smaller Highway Code rules. These aren’t about reckless driving, they’re the everyday mistakes that could still mean fines, penalty points, and higher insurance bills.
Here are nine real rules worth keeping in mind.
1. Overloading the Vehicle
Heaping the car full of furniture, bags, or garden waste? Every vehicle has a weight limit. Go over it and you could be penalised.
- Fine: Between £100–£300 depending on the overload.
- Source: DVSA fines
2. Insecure Loads
Whether inside or strapped to the roof, loads must be properly secured to avoid danger.
- Fine: £100 plus 3 points if deemed unsafe.
- Source: GOV.UK load rules
3. Obstructed View
If luggage blocks your rear mirror or you can’t see properly out the back, you could be fined.
- Fine: Up to £1,000.
- Source: Highway Code Annex 5
4. Tyres Under the Limit
Check tread depth — the legal minimum is 1.6mm.
- Fine: £2,500 for each illegal tyre, plus 3 points.
- Source: GOV.UK tyre safety
5. Not Wearing a Seatbelt
It’s a simple but costly mistake.
- Fine: Up to £500.
- Source: Highway Code Annex 5
6. Using a Mobile Phone
If you’re in the driver’s seat and not safely parked, don’t touch your phone.
- Fine: £1,000 and 6 points (up to £2,500 in lorries or buses).
- Source: Highway Code Annex 5
7. Outdated Licence Information
Failure to update your licence address with DVLA is an offence.
- Fine: Up to £1,000.
- Source: DVLA licence updates
8. Pavement Parking
- Illegal throughout London, unless signage says otherwise.
- Elsewhere, only banned where local councils set restrictions.
- Penalty: Council fines typically £70, reduced if paid early.
- Source: Rule 244 of the Highway Code
9. New Drivers
Under the “probationary” period rules, hitting 6 points within two years of passing will see your licence revoked.
- Consequence: Retaking both tests.
- Source: New driver rules
Moral of the story: everyday mistakes can mean more than just a fine, the points could push up your insurance premium and cost you more in the long run.
