Motorists are at risk of being slapped with a hefty £1,000 fine for breaking a simple number plate rule before the end of the year. Wet weather and heavy rain can lead to roads becoming caked in mud, grit and grime, which is likely to rub off on car bodywork.
Although having a dirty side panel or door is unlikely to cause any issues, mud coating a car number plate could backfire.Alicia Hempsted, MoneySuperMarket’s car insurance expert, stressed motorists could face four-figure fines even if they accidentally break the rule.
Alicia said: “While having a dirty car isn’t illegal, driving with an obscured number plate could land you in trouble. The Highway Code makes it clear that your registration plate must always be visible so that police and other road users can identify your vehicle. If it’s obscured, you could face a fine of up to £1,000.
“To avoid unnecessary penalties, make it part of your routine to check your number plates before setting off – especially during winter months when mud and spray can build up quickly.”
According to Annex 6 of the Highway Code, “lights, indicators, reflectors, and number plates MUST be kept clean and clear”. It means road users must ensure their vehicles are kept somewhat clean at all times, even in the middle of autumn and winter.
MoneySuperMarket has claimed that preparation is key, with road users urged to keep a cloth or some wet wipes in their car for quick wipe-downs.
Road users should also make sure to take a quick lap around their car to check plates, lights, and mirrors for dirt or grime. The RAC has previously explained that motorists who are believed to have covered their car in mud on purpose could face more serious consequences.
The RAC said: “If a plate is obscured by dirt, mud, snow, or anything else that makes it difficult to read, it does not comply with the law.
“However, in cases where it appears that the plate has been deliberately obscured to avoid detection, then penalties may be more severe, potentially leading to prosecution by the police.”