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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
World
Lottie Gibbons

Drivers could face £1,000 fine for not clearing steamy car windows

If you're commuting to work in the morning you might have noticed that the rain can cause your car windows to steam up.

However, drivers should make sure they clear their windscreens before they set off, as failing to do so could land you with a hefty fine. Car expert and co-founder Olly Jones, of EV subscription service, elmo has warned drivers that by not clearing their windows properly they could end up with a £1,000 fine and three penalty points.

According to the Highway Code, failure to have proper control of the vehicle or full view of the road and traffic ahead is an offence. This means you need to fully clear your windscreen before setting off.

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However, leaving your engine running while defrosting your car will result in a £20 fine, which can increase to £40 if the engine is not switched off when requested. According to rule 123 of the Highway Code and regulations 98 and 107 of the Road Vehicles (Constructions and Use) Regulations 1986, motorists must not leave their engine running while defrosting their car.

This rule doesn’t apply to those who have their own driveway. Rule 123 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.

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.

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