With Christmas party season about to kick off, many will be looking forward to getting dressed up and heading out to celebrate the festive season.
However, wearing certain fancy clothes behind the wheel could land you in trouble with the law.
Driving with clothes that either impede your ability to control your car, or that could distract other drivers, may lead to a hefty fine and as many as nine points on your licence, according to Motoring experts National Tyres and Autocare.
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Wearing inappropriate footwear when driving - whilst not technically illegal - could be in violation of Rule 97 of the Highway Code, which states: “You should ensure clothing and footwear do not prevent you using the controls in any manner.”
Therefore, wearing high heels or boots, which can limit your ability to move your ankles and control the pedals, may be considered driving without due care and attention.
Similarly, wearing a fancy dress costume behind the wheel could significantly impact your ability to control your car.
Failure to have proper control of your vehicle could lead to a maximum fine of £5,000, as well as a discretionary disqualification and points on your licence.
Group Marketing Director at National Tyres and Autocare Michael Bourne said: “Driving in outfits that impact your driving ability could cause an accident.
"Any piece of clothing that impairs your vision or prevents you from using the car's controls, could lead to a £5K fine and potentially three points on your licence.”
Additionally, drivers are also advised to consider whether their outfit could be deemed distracting to other drivers, for example, a Santa outfit or sparkly clothing can be classed as ‘careless and inconsiderate driving’ according to The Highway Code.
If your outfit is deemed as careless or inconsiderate, it could lead to an unlimited fine, as well as a discretionary disqualification and between 3 and 9 points on your licence.
Bourne added: “We recommend making sure your outfit doesn’t impact your driving ability as well as others, and if it does, take your outfit to the venue and then get changed there.”
