Drivers battling colds and flus this winter may find yourself paying ‘snot tax’ – with fines as much as £5,000, penalty factors and at worst – a voided insurance coverage
Sniffles behind the wheel may land motorists with greater than a runny nostril – as consultants warn drivers battling colds and flu face fines, penalty factors and even invalidated insurance coverage.
Claire Wills-McKissick, momentary automobile insurance coverage professional at Tempcover, defined simply how a lot cash poorly drivers could possibly be blowing (alongside their nostril).
“Driving if you’re sick might be dangerous for you and different street customers. Symptoms like sneezing, coughing matches, and even fatigue and drowsiness may cause you to lose focus and even momentary management of your automobile. These motorists are at higher danger of heavy fines, factors on their licence, and invalidated insurance coverage and right here’s how.”
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Motorists whose driving falls beneath the usual of a cautious and competent driver could possibly be charged with driving with out due care and a focus.
A momentary lapse would possibly see you hit with a hard and fast penalty and three factors. But severe instances can land drivers in courtroom, with fines of as much as £5,000, a driving ban, or three to 9 penalty factors.
The ‘snot tax’
Even reaching for a tissue may set off penalties. Under the Road Traffic Act, taking your hand off the wheel, even for a second, could also be classed as shedding correct management.
If it creates hazard, drivers danger a £1,000 fantastic and three penalty factors. A easy sneeze, in different phrases, may see you paying what consultants are calling the “snot tax.”
Insurance influence
Being unfit to drive doesn’t simply danger a fantastic – it will possibly additionally void your cowl. If sickness performs an element in a crash, insurers can argue you weren’t match to be on the street, leaving you chargeable for damages.
“With that in thoughts, if you happen to’re actually not feeling effectively, take into account suspending your journey, or asking another person to take over the driving duties,” Claire added.
“When utilizing a brief automobile insurance coverage supplier, like Tempcover, they will take out cowl for as little as an hour, making it a lot simpler handy over the driving.”
Safe driving suggestions
While consultants stress it’s finest to keep away from driving sick, Tempcover advises motorists to:
- Assess your situation – If you’re feeling a coughing or sneezing match approaching, pull over safely. Looking away for simply two seconds doubles the chance of a crash.
- Check treatment – Cold and flu treatments may cause drowsiness. If there’s any danger, keep away from driving.
- Use air flow – Air con or an open window can clear your head and ease congestion.
