Drivers are being warned that they could face £80 fines if they clear frost from their car windscreens this winter.
As the temperatures continue to drop, many motorists will have to go to their vehicles earlier than normal to get rid of the morning frost from their windscreens.
But leaving your car unattended while the frost clears could leave you facing a fine of up to £80.
According to the Highway Code, drivers must not leave their parked car unattended with the engine running.
Drivers are being warned that they could face £80 fines if they clear frost from their car windscreens
WikiCommons
The official Highway Code book
PA
Rule 123 of the code states: “You MUST NOT leave a parked vehicle unattended with the engine running or leave a vehicle engine running unnecessarily while that vehicle is stationary on a public road.”
The rule goes on to say: “Generally, if the vehicle is stationary and is likely to remain so for more than a couple of minutes, you should apply the parking brake and switch off the engine to reduce emissions and noise pollution.
“However, it is permissible to leave the engine running if the vehicle is stationary in traffic or for diagnosing faults.”
While some authorities charge small fines for such offences, Comparethemarket say there is a chance that the fine could be as big as £80.
Such fines are usually only given to those who refuse to switch off their engine when prompted to do so.
Julie Daniels, car insurance expert at Comparethemarket said: “Staying alert and in control of the vehicle is especially important during winter, where the colder weather can present additional hazards.
“Checking that your tyres have good pressure and enough tread for grip, topping your screenwash with a formula containing antifreeze, and making sure that your battery is well-maintained are a few things that can be done in preparation,” as quoted by the Express.
* An earlier version of this story said the potential fine amount was £800, not £80. This was due to an error in the data originally issued by Comparethemarket. We are happy to correct this error.